Gannett Foundation 2011

Details

Charities in Somerset and Devon could land a cash jackpot of thousands of pounds thanks to Newsquest Somerset.

The Gannett Foundation is the charitable arm of Gannett, owner of Newsquest Media Group, which publishes regional newspapers, websites and magazines nationwide – including Somerset County Gazette, Bridgwater Mercury, Chard and Ilminster News, Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News, Yeovil Express and the Mid Devon Star.

The Gannett Foundation provides funding to support local projects and organisations in areas where Newsquest operates in the UK.

It values projects that bring lasting benefits to the communities and neighbourhoods served by its newspapers. That includes schemes for neighbourhood improvement and local problem-solving, economic development, youth development, education and cultural creativity, help for the disadvantaged or disabled and environmental conservation.

Newsquest Somerset news editor Alex Cameron said: “We want to help good causes throughout the area to make their dreams come true. Grants are typically made for substantial projects which require and merit awards of between £5,000 and £10,000.

“The trustees also consider more modest applications but we actively encourage imaginative and ambitious projects on a bigger scale. And we are also able to join with other contributors to support elements of larger projects.”

While preference may be given to ideas which create a durable legacy for the community, Gannett will consider single events or projects of limited duration that otherwise meet the criteria.

Restrictions:

Applicants must be registered charities.

Applicants must not have received a grant from the foundation within the last two years.

The foundation will NOT fund: - salaries, professional fees or day-to-day running or maintenance costs - general appeals as opposed to specific projects - projects that do not bring benefits to local communities - political or religious organisations - state or privately run schools (other than special needs) or hospitals (other than hospices).

Favour is given to projects that demonstrate good planning, oversight and financial responsibility. Scouts and other uniformed groups are NO LONGER excluded.

You must supply copies of your most recent accounts (where required by the Charities Commission) or other appropriate financial information, together with any supporting materials and details of your organisation’s managing committee.

The actual use of all grants will be monitored.

How to apply:

Applications can be downloaded by clicking on the link at the top of this page

The closing date for applications is no later than October 12, 2011.

Forms should ideally be emailed to alex.cameron@countygazette.co.uk or posted to:

Alex Cameron

Gannett Foundation

Newsquest Somerset

St James Street

Taunton

Somerset

TA1 1JR