Community grants fund in high demand

Some difficult decisions will be needed for this year’s Council Community Grants fund with a record number of applications received.

A total of just under $700,000 has been requested through the fund which has $280,000 available for annual distribution. Community Partnerships Advisor Jodie Griffiths said there was an extremely high demand for the limited funds available.

“Council’s grants committee meet to consider the applications and their recommendations will be considered by full Council on 31 October,” she said.

“Community grants are Council's way of acknowledging the contribution of not-for-profit organisations in providing essential services. Council's role is to add value to the ability of the volunteer sector to thrive and respond to community needs by providing funding assistance. Projects must be of direct benefit to people of the Marlborough district,” Mrs Griffiths said.

“Council is aware funding is becoming a real challenge for many community groups with other funding sources narrowing their criteria and demand far exceeding the funding available.”

All applicants will be advised of outcomes after 31 October.