COMMUNITY groups have a chance to grab a slice of a big cash cake that is available – but they’ll have to hurry to take advantage of the offer.

They have just under two months to get their applications in. The closing date is Friday, October 8.

A total of �100,000 is available to be shared out from the Community Grants scheme that is administered by Fenland District Council and supported by Roddons Housing Association. Groups can apply for up to �5,000 for their pet projects.

If an organisation is applying for funding for a project that is district-wide, there is no cap on the amount they can request but they must demonstrate that it will benefit every area across Fenland. Funding is currently awarded through four local Neighbourhood Management Boards, which each has a total pot of �25,000 to distribute to groups.

Groups that have benefited from grants in the past include:

• St Peter’s Tennis Club in Chatteris, which was helped to buy a new ball-feeding machine

• The Volunteer Centre in Wisbech, where the funding was used to promote more volunteering opportunities

• St Mary’s church in Doddington, where the money went towards refurbishing its community hall

• Homestart Fenland, which received help to improve its home visiting services for families with children aged under five

• Young People March used the funding to help pay for two centre managers to ensure that young people continue to have access to high quality youth services

• The Scaldgate club in Whittlesey received money to help with its work with people with disabilities and their carers

Councillor Chris Seaton, FDC’s portfolio holder responsible for community development, said: “As these examples show, even a small amount of money can make a big difference to a local group or community. So if you have a good project in mind that needs some extra funds, make sure you get your application in to us as soon as possible.”

To get more details about the latest grants and an application form, call Steve Drew, FDC’s business and community development support officer, on 01354 654321 or email sdrew@fenland.gov.uk