Wirral charities invited to stake a claim for share of Gannett cash (From Wirral Globe)

Wirral charities invited to stake a claim for share of Gannett cash

11:56am Tuesday 28th August 2012 in News

WIRRAL charities are invited to stake a claim for funding from the Gannett Foundation.

The cash has been put up by an arm of Gannett Co Inc, the American publishing giant that owns the Globe's parent company, Newsquest Mediagroup.

It supports projects that take a creative approach to community needs from which a large number of people benefit.

Priority is given to projects of lasting benefit to the community, such as education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth development, local problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment. Previous grant recipients include Wirral Autistic Society, which was awarded £25,600 for its "Home From Home Appeal".

The money was used to pay for furniture needed for the new six-bed respite centre at the society’s headquarters in Raby Hall, Raby Mere.

In December, West Kirby Disabled Swimming Club received £630, which was used to help the group update its equipment. Grants are made for substantial projects which require and merit awards of between £5,000 and £10,000. Decisions in respect of the value of the funding will be made by the trustees and based on the evidence submitted.

Modest applications will be considered, but the board of grant trustees actively encourage imaginative and ambitious projects on a bigger scale. Among those not eligible for funding are: Individuals; Organisations that are not registered charities; National or regional organisations unless the project addresses specific local community needs; Political, religious or uniformed groups; Multi-year campaigns, animal charities or school groups (excluding special needs schools).

If an applicant has received a grant in the past two years they are not eligible for a grant this time around. Over the last 10 years, the Gannett Foundation has made grants in the UK totalling more than £4 million.

• For an application form, write to: Gannett grants, Wirral Globe, Haymarket Court, Hinson Street, Birkenhead CH41 5BX, telephone 0151 649 4050 or click on the link below to download a form . 

A full list of guidelines will be sent with the application form. The deadline for applications has been extended to Friday, September 28. Any applications which do not meet the judging panel's criteria will be rejected.