Bath & North East Somerset Council has opened applications for the Community Contribution Fund offering grants of £500 or £1,000 to help organisations run new community activities which reduce inequalities.
The Community Contribution Fund is a scheme for residents to pay into a 'good causes’ fund to support local charity, community and voluntary groups and parish councils and has been running since 2021.
To date, residents have donated more than £48,000 and £41,000 has already been awarded to local projects.
Previous projects supported by the fund have included Warm Spaces, low cost or free food initiatives, mental health support projects and refurbishment of community facilities.
Organisations can apply on the council website from now until May 30. Applications must be for a new activity or for providing an existing service in a new area for people aged over 55. Intergenerational projects will also be considered.
Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for Resources, said: “Projects already funded by the Community Contribution Fund have brought about positive change in people’s lives, especially the most vulnerable. The aim of this round of funding is to help organisations get a new activity off the ground or take an existing activity to a different part of Bath and North East Somerset, either of which should be aimed the over-55s. We look forward to hearing your ideas.
“Thank you to all the residents who have donated already. It’s not too late to get involved if you want to contribute – the more funding we receive, the more local projects can be supported.”
Every penny of donations received is given to local organisations. The minimum contribution is £5 and there is no maximum. To contribute or to find out where the money has been distributed, visit the Community Contribution Fund webpage.