Local community housing projects and charities are being urged to put their case forward as Nationwide, the world’s largest building society, makes £500,000 available to help make a difference to communities across the region.

The Society is inviting applications for grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 for housing projects that will support the most vulnerable in local communities.

So far Nationwide has awarded £4 million in grants to more than 100 projects and will be investing £5.5 million in housing projects across the UK per year. The programme is being delivered with support from UK Community Foundations, the national network for all accredited Community Foundations across the country.

Charities, community land trusts and housing co-operatives across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry & Solihull can apply for grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 for one or two years to make a change in their local area. The application process closes on 5 July and successful applicants will be notified by the end of September.

Although applications are invited from Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry & Solihull the Heart of England Community Foundation are not managing this round, all applications and queries should be directed to The Staffordshire Community Foundation.

Tina Costello, CEO of the Foundation said:

“Finding safe, affordable and sustainable housing is a growing challenge. We’re so proud to be involved in this fund again and are happy to direct groups to The Staffordshire Community Foundation where they can complete the application process.

 

“Our last involvement with the fund was hugely successful and we were able to distribute £491,447 to 13 amazing groups!”

A Community Board, which is comprised of Nationwide members and employees, will review all the grant applications and award grants of up to a £50,000. The Board and Nationwide branches within the region will also be providing time and expertise to these charities.

Full details can be found here, in local Nationwide branches in the region or by reviewing the fund’s page.

Photo: Leon was employed by SIFA Fireside, through a position that was funded by the Nationwide Community Grants programme.