£105,380 to fund grassroots groups

CASH for community groups is up for grabs through a brand new pot of money called the Grassroots Fund.

The Community Foundation for Greater Manchester is now accepting applications for the Grassroots Fund, which was set up by the Government’s Office for the Third Sector to support small voluntary and community groups across the country.

It has made £105,383 available over the next three years to Oldham through the Community Foundation.

To be eligible for a grant, groups must have been formed before December 31, 2006.

They must also have an average income of less that £20,000 over the last three years, and must be volunteer led.

Groups that fit the criteria can apply for up to £5,000 over the next three years, either as a one-off payment or spread over the period.

Grants can be applied for a range of activities, including for new equipment or for renovating buildings.

Nick Massey, chief executive of the Community Foundation, said: “This Fund is open to a wide range of groups — playschemes, sports teams, lunch clubs or tenants’ and residents’ associations.

“Money will be allocated by financial year, so we are encouraging anyone who would like to apply to contact us as soon as possible, as leaving it until later in the year could limit the amount of money you can apply for.”

Oldham groups that have benefited from funding through the Community Foundation include 115th Oldham Scout Group, Music Matters and Fitton Hill & Hathershaw Bulldogs.

Call 0161 214 0940 or visit www.communityfoundation.co.uk