Island projects making a difference in their community could be eligible for a funding boost.
New and existing schemes supporting Isle of Wight residents who are struggling with food, utility-related items or wider essentials are being invited to apply for a community grant from Monday, 18th November.
The scheme is being administered by the Isle of Wight Council using its allocation from the Household Support Fund (HSF), granted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
More than 200 grants have been awarded to local organisations by the scheme over the past three years.
The total amount available for grants this time round will be in excess of £300,000.
Innovative sustainable initiatives
In addition to projects providing immediate support to residents, the council is looking for innovative sustainable initiatives that could be seed-funded to help residents live a life free from poverty and inequality, as set out within the Isle of Wight Poverty Reduction Strategy.
Funding could be used for projects based around food, energy efficient white goods, energy saving items, warm packs and draft excluders as well as weather appropriate clothing and wider essentials.
Andre: Another great opportunity to apply for one-off funding for a particular project
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for adult social care, said,
“This is another great opportunity for Island groups and organisations to apply for one-off funding for a particular project.
“Community grants provide support and a boost to many extremely valuable community initiatives across the Island, enabling them to provide the necessary services and develop them to reach as many residents as possible, especially those in greatest need.
“I would urge even more groups and organisations to find out more about this grant scheme which could benefit their communities!”
Applications from all welcome
The council would welcome applications from community and voluntary groups, charities, faith groups, schools, colleges and early years settings as well as town, parish and community councils.
The deadline for applications is Friday, 29th November. A further community grants scheme will launch in January so groups and organisations will have another opportunity to apply.
The community grants scheme is just one of the ways the council is supporting Island residents via the HSF.
Further information on how organisations can apply for a community grant is available on the council’s cost-of-living web pages.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
