We are urging organisations across Essex to apply for our new Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Spaces Fund.
Launched today, the £100,000 fund offers grants of up to £1,000 so organisations can create new spaces or activities, or extend their existing services.
The fund is open to charities, clubs or associations, community interest companies and town and parish councils.
Grants can be used for things like equipment to run new activities, venue or catering costs, operational costs including utilities, and staff or volunteer expenditure.
Cllr Louise McKinlay, ECC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance, said: “We know people across the country are struggling at the moment and helping tackle the cost of living crisis is a key priority for Essex County Council.
“Our new Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Spaces Fund will provide funding to organisations, so they can better support those in need in their communities.
“This might be by opening up somewhere warm for people to go this winter or offering activities for them to enjoy inside a safe and welcoming space.
“We hope this fund will provide support for those most in need, but also bring communities closer together and help people feel connected with others in their area. I would urge groups across Essex to apply.”
The fund will be administered by the Essex Association of Local Councils (EALC) on our behalf.
Find out more or apply to the Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Spaces Fund at the EALC website.
The fund forms part of our Cost of Living Support for Households and Communities plan, a £50m package of support announced last month.