A fund set up to benefit and empower community and voluntary projects across the Tees Valley has awarded more than £150,000 in the last year.
Thirteen’s Community Fund grants up to £2,500 to support activities that make our neighbourhoods places where people want to live.
Jeremy Brock, Thirteen’s customer involvement manager, said: ‘’We are delighted to have been able to approve grants for a range of projects in the local area over the last year. We couldn’t do this without Thirteen’s customer panel who assess the applications, all of which will deliver benefits to our local communities and residents.”
Last year 112 projects received funding ranging from £250 to £2,500. Local initiatives supported include Dyke House in Bloom, which aims to improve the area and encourage community participation; an over 50’s ‘youth club’ in Middlesbrough; a project for 8 to 19-year-olds in Stockton aimed at reducing antisocial behaviour plus Thornaby indoor bowling club who purchased specialist bowling equipment.
The bowling club purchased several ‘bowling arms’ which allows people with back, hip or knee problems and individuals who require the assistance of a wheelchair, to take part in indoor bowls.
Brian Hannaford, Thornaby Indoor Bowls Club coach, said: “Thirteen’s support has enabled the club to purchase several different sized arms that are suitable for wheelchair users to the tallest person.
“Indoor bowls is an excellent way to stay active while meeting a whole new circle of friends and this funding will allow us to make the sport even more accessible.”
If you would like more information on how to apply to Thirteen’s Community Fund, please visit http://www.thirteengroup.co.uk/page/get-involved or call the customer involvement team on 01642 947550.