Strengthening Communities Round 2 is almost over!
Community projects are to benefit from £118,910 in grants, funding a range of local initiatives including the development of local sporting facilities, getting residents connected and developing new skills and increasing volunteering so people can find the help they need.
In the first round of the Strengthening Communities grants, administered by Basingstoke Voluntary Action on behalf of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, funding has been awarded to 15 organisations.
The scheme enables organisations, including community and voluntary groups, schools and parish and town councils, to apply for grants to support them to become more resilient and drive innovation to better meet community needs.
A wide range of organisations and projects have received funding: the Basingstoke & District Disability Forum are launching a Community Advocate programme; a specialised sports lawnmower for the Oakley Bowling Club will keep their green competition-ready; and resources for the Westside Community Association will help improve access to local services and skills development in the local community.
A full list of the grants awarded is available online https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/funding
Cabinet Member for Partnerships Cllr Jenny Vaux said: “I’m really pleased to see such diverse uses for the funding which will make a big difference to residents’ lives across our area.
“We value the contribution of the borough’s voluntary sector and we are committed to supporting local organisations.”
Basingstoke Voluntary Action’s Community Development Manager Mary Robinson continued: “These grants awards show the resilience and innovation of the voluntary community across Basingstoke and Deane.
“We’re looking forward to administering the next round of grant applications, supporting the sustainability of local voluntary organisations.”
The second round of Strengthening Communities funding is open for applications until Sunday 11 September. Organisations can apply for this funding by visiting www.bvaction.org.uk/scgs