COMMUNITY charities could be in line for thousands of pounds thanks to a foundation set up by our parent company.

The Gannett Foundation is offering awards of up to £5,000 for charitable projects that take a creative approach to community issues.

Charities need to apply before Friday, March 30, with proposals that could involve anything from neighbourhood improvements to youth development. Gannett gives out over £250,000 to charities every six months.

Last year, Dialability, the information and advice service for disabled people, received a £5,000 grant towards a specially-adapted garden at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, in Oxford.

Dialability manager Sue Butterworth said: "The money has gone towards developing the range of tools and equipment to help people stuck in a pattern of pain take up hobbies and leisure activities."

The Pathway Workshop, in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, which provides jobs for disabled people, received £1,000 from the scheme towards uniforms for staff, who make garden furniture and other items out of recycled timber.

General manager Jenny O'Loughlin said: "The staff were really pleased with their uniforms. It makes them feel like part of a team."

Only registered charities can apply. Grants will not be given to:

  • Individuals
  • National or regional organisations unless the project addresses specific community needs
  • The promotion of religious causes
  • Endowment funds
  • General appeals
  • Medical or research organisations
  • Multi-year campaigns
  • Animal charities.

An application form and guidelines can be downloaded from our website by following the link on the right-hand side of the home page. Send completed forms to the Editor's PA, Newsquest Oxfordshire, Newspaper House, Osney Mead, Oxford, OX2 0EJ.