COMMUNITY groups and local good causes, as well as individuals and families in need, are being encouraged to apply for grants administered by Farnham Town Council.

The South Street Trust and the Community Grants fund are suitable for organisations and activities in Farnham as varied as arts projects, sports, building projects, education and support for older people. The Farnham Support Fund is available for households in urgent need of financial help.

Councillor John Neale, leader of Farnham Town Council, said: “I would urge any community group or organisation looking for funding for projects or activities to check the grants section of our website as soon as possible to see if one of the funds could provide a welcome cash boost.

"Deadlines for applications are very soon."

He continued: “Farnham Town Council also continues to administer the Farnham Support Fund as we know financial hardship caused by the pandemic remains a challenge for a number of local people.

"The town council in collaboration with other local charities and organisations, wants to play a role in offering financial relief where we can. Everything you need to apply is on our website or you can contact us direct.”

The Farnham Support Fund was previously known as the Farnham Coronavirus Support Fund and was renamed to reflect ongoing need as the pandemic has evolved.

It has a simple application process and can provide up to £350 per household for people in need of urgent financial help, such as for food, gas or electricity, replacing basic items such as a cooker or buying a bed or acquiring specialist equipment.

Applications are accepted all year round.

The deadline for applications to the Community Grants fund is December 6.

The fund provides grants of up to £2,000 to not-for-profit organisations for one-off projects or schemes that require funding for up to three years.

Examples of recent successful applications include young people’s facilities, heritage projects, sports activities, community halls and environmental activities.

The South Street Trust is specifically for visual art-based educational activity and welcomes applications for any amount of money for projects in Farnham with a creative input.

The deadline for applications is January 3.

Full information about the South Street Trust, Community Grants and Farnham Support Fund is at www.farnham.gov.uk/grants