A new round of funding has been announced to support communities in Watford.
The Watford Mayor's Small Grants Fund is now open to all 'not for profit' community organisations, inviting them to apply for grants of up to £3,000.
Mayor Peter Taylor backs the fund, which supports an array of initiatives, from one-off community events to the procurement of equipment.
To qualify for a grant, applications must integrate at least one of the Council Plan themes: a greener, brighter future, an inspiring, thriving, and creative town, and a diverse, happy, and healthy town.
The fund has been crucial in supporting varied community initiatives in Watford in recent years.
Past beneficiaries have included Mojo Fusion Ltd CIC's multicultural community carnival with an award of £2,279 and Herts Pride's big top circus tent, which received £3,000.
The fund has also supported sustainability efforts, bestowing £1,500 each for LED lighting at Meriden Community Centre and RefillAbell Workshops CIC to deliver talks in local schools and organise visits to their shop.
To continually support the local community, a different initiative incorporated £1,300 for Raise NHS Charity to purchase an age simulation suit and dementia clocks to aid in the care for elderly patients.
Other projects that were funded included £1,500 for the Watford Elim Church Manna Foodbank Project, Beast Boxing Academy being granted £3,000 for growth support, and Alternatives Watford and Watford Salvation Army receiving £2,000 each for Baby Boxes and a community allotment project, respectively.
The mayor said: "Voluntary and community groups make a real difference in Watford.
"I know how important it is to support their work and the Mayor’s Small Grants fund is one of the ways we do this.
"I would encourage local groups to consider applying, especially if they have an idea to make their community more sustainable and enhance the local environment."
Three drop-in sessions will be held at the Town Hall Annexe this Thursday, on Thursday February 22, and March 7, from 3pm to 6pm.
Here, attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about the application protocol, eligibility criteria and gain insight into successful grant applications.
Applications to the Mayor's Small Grants Fund can be made up to Friday, March 15.
These will be considered on a first-come, first-serve basis up to the designated closing date, depending on budget availability.
Interested organisations are urged to visit www.watford.gov.uk/mayors-smallgrants and complete the online form.
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