GOOD causes could be in line for a cash boost - as the the latest round of grants from the Gannett Foundation has opened.

Charities in Somerset are now being urged to apply for grants distributed by The Gannett Foundation, the charitable arm of Gannett Co Inc, the parent company of Newsquest Media Group, one of the UK’s largest publishers and owners of the County Gazette, Bridgwater Mercury, Chard and Ilminster News and the Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News.

It provides funding to registered charities in the areas where it operates local newspapers and websites.

The foundation supports charities with projects which take a creative approach to fundamental issues such as neighbourhood improvements, local problem-solving, economic development, youth enterprise, sport and healthy living, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, care of the elderly, environmental conservation, and educational or cultural enrichment.

Projects are valued that bring lasting benefits to communities served by our local newspapers and websites. 

While preference may be given to ideas which create a durable legacy for the community, single events of limited duration that otherwise meet the criteria will be considered.

Newsquest Somerset editor, Paul Jones, said: “It is great to be able to offer charities in our area the chance to secure much-needed funding to help the Somerset community.

“I would urge anyone who may benefit from some help to get an application submitted as soon as possible.”

Typically, grants are modest sums for practical projects, but awards for larger projects which deserve our backing will be considered.

We are also able to join with other contributors to support elements of larger projects, though we prefer to make a donation which will fund a project entirely or which constitutes the final instalment to complete a project.

Decisions about funding will be made by the trustees based on evidence submitted.

The foundation favours projects that demonstrate good planning, oversight and financial responsibility.

As a prerequisite, the submission of copies of the charity’s most recent financial accounts are required. In addition, any supporting materials and further details concerning the overall aims of the charity should be included with each submission.

Each nomination will be judged on its own merits at the absolute discretion of the trustees, whose decision is final.

Applications which do not meet our criteria or which do not follow our rules and procedures will be rejected.

The completed form and supporting document should be sent via email to newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk. 

Applications must arrive by 5pm on Monday, October 9, 2017.