READING Borough Council has urged community groups to bid for council grants.
Charities, voluntary organisations, faith groups, and cultural enterprises have been invited to apply for the council’s Small Grants fund.
It has made £200,000 available for groups which work to support inclusion and connectivity for vulnerable and marginalised groups around Reading.
The first round of funding will see half of the allocated funds distributed during July, with a second round open for applications in October.
Individual organisations can apply for grants of up to £5,000 each, or up to £10,000 when applying in partnership with another organisation.
The focus of this year’s round of funding is the promotion of inclusion and connectivity for marginalised groups and vulnerable adults and children.
With it, the council aims to combat prejudice and discrimination and foster understanding and empathy among different communities.
Jason Brock, Reading Council Leader, said: “It is Reading’s unique blend of diverse and thriving communities that really sets it apart, and makes it such a great place to live and work.
“Diverse communities can have divergent needs and challenges, however, and the theme of the Council’s small grants fund this year is breaking down the barriers which are sometimes evident in society.
“We want to support organisations who help to breakdown prejudice and discrimination as well as those who, through their activities, help to create new friendships and empathy in our communities.”
Organisations are invited to apply online if seeking help with one-off or small projects, events funding, start-up and equipment costs, or for aid in running new or expanded services.
Cllr Brock said: “Last year’s small grants fund was a tremendous success, with 22 organisations benefitting from Council grants to support activities to reduce the impact of poverty and encourage wellbeing in some of our more deprived communities.
“Small community-led projects make a real difference on the ground and I’m proud that the Council is once again supporting the local community groups which deliver them.”
To apply for funding, visit: www.reading.gov.uk.
The deadline for applications is Monday, June 20.
