Community groups urged to apply for grants of up to £5,000

In the last financial year alone, the foundation provided support to 33 groups, representing a significant contribution to local communities.

Back in 2013, three teams of First Responders received more than £5,000 to purchase defibrillators and a bike which has helped them to increase their support for communities across South Wales.

Penny Reeves, former chairwoman of Monmouthshire Building Society Charitable Foundation, said: “The foundation has made a significant impact to a diverse number of worthwhile organisations and causes in local communities over the past 15 years.

“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to bestow a more substantial financial award than normal to one lucky local organisation who we consider to have a worthy need.

“We invite any local organisation who meets our eligibility criteria to apply for this award of up to £5,000.”

Since 2000, Monmouthshire Building Society Charitable Foundation has contributed more than £160,000 to 262 organisations and charities.

The foundation is happy to receive applications from all walks of life, such as the arts, education, youth groups, the elderly, the hospice movement, the environment, support groups, carers and sports groups.

The foundation accepts applications for amounts of funding up to £1,000, but for organisations who would like to purchase more expensive items, but perhaps lack the funds to do so, this is an ideal opportunity for them to make their funding dreams come true.

It also welcomes any donations or bequests from individuals. The more funding received, the more local organisations and charities will benefit.

Full information and guidance on how to apply can be found in the foundation’s application form.

Copies are available from any Monmouthshire Building Society branch or agency office, and can also be printed off from the ‘community’ section of the society’s website at www.monbs.com/mbscf. All applications must be received by May 29, 2015.