£30,000 available for grants to community and voluntary groups
13 October 2009
The third round of a council funded 'Community Chest' has been welcomed by the voluntary and community sectors in the Harrogate district who urge all local groups to apply for this funding.
Harrogate Borough Council first awarded grants from the Community Chest in 2007 as part of its plans to increase support for volunteers and community groups.
The budget for 2009 is £30,000.
Councillor Andrew Jones, Cabinet Member for Resources, strongly supported the creation of the fund and its continuation, said:
"Community groups play a huge role in providing many essential services and activities in our district. The council works closely with voluntary groups, and recognises the challenges they face in these difficult economic times.
"It is challenging times for us all, but because of tight control of the council's funds we are able to have a third round of the 'Community Chest'. This is a pot of money that community groups can bid for to help with their capital projects or to help them secure other grants.
We know from previous years that the impact on the community from these grants for volunteers and community groups is huge, and that this scheme delivers an excellent return on the investment of public funds."
Money is available to support community, environmental, sports, play projects and activities.
Application forms are available from
www.harrogate.gov.uk/voluntary or from Ann Byrne, Corporate Improvement Officer (Partnerships) on 01423 556067 or email
ann.byrne@harrogate.gov.uk The web site also details grants that were awarded in 2007 and 2008.
Grants are available of between £500 and £5000.
The closing date for applications is 27 November 2009.