Community Groups Urged To Apply As Isle Of Wight Foundation Grant Deadline Nears

Community organisations across the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to apply for funding from the Isle of Wight Foundation before the current grant window closes on 15 June.

Since 2014, the foundation has awarded more than £900,000 to local projects, with grants ranging from £3,000 to £16,000 to support stronger communities and help people access employment and housing opportunities.

One recent beneficiary is the Bay Youth Project, which received £14,000 to help create a grassroots music and media facility within the renovated Sandown Town Hall.

The project, known as LINK, supports young people aged 10 to 18 through a range of sports, arts and creative activities.

The funding has enabled the development of a music studio where young people can learn new skills and explore creative opportunities.

A 14-year-old participant said the facility had helped them learn to play the bass guitar and develop skills they might never otherwise have had the chance to explore.

Bay Youth Project's Music, Multimedia and Arts Co-ordinator, Jake, said access to professional-quality equipment has helped young people build confidence, express themselves creatively and achieve things they never thought possible.

The Isle of Wight Foundation is funded by the companies behind Island Roads, including Ringway Island Roads, Island Roads Services, Vinci Concessions and Meridiam.

The grants are funded through charitable donations from the organisations and are separate from highway services delivered under the Island Roads contract.

Foundation Chairman Eddie Fellows said there is still time for groups to submit applications before the deadline and encouraged organisations with community-focused projects to apply.

Further information about the foundation and how to apply can be found via the Island Roads website.