Farnham Town Council is inviting local groups to apply for funds from two grant pots which total more than £50,000. 

Community grants of up to £2,000 are available for projects that will promote the environment and/or community life for residents who live in Farnham and the town’s villages. 

Applications from not-for-profit organisations will be considered for a wide range of projects including improving youth facilities, sustainable community environmental initiatives, community buildings and schemes that support older people and/or those with a disability.

The South Street Trust Fund of which Farnham Town Council is the trustee, is for art-based educational activity. Around 25 grants are made each year for projects which are related to craft and allied arts such as painting, textiles and sculpture. 

Examples of previous projects include free family craft activities for families run by the New Ashgate Gallery, the creation of a sculpture for a school garden and provision of workshop facilitators to lead sessions in graffiti art, ceramics, watercolours and drawing at a family festival organised by Farnham Maltings.

Councillor Graham White, Joint Leader of Farnham Town Council says: “We are looking to fund some exciting projects that benefit the community. With October Craft Month well underway, I’m hoping that some new local craft organisations will be inspired to apply for funds for a creative project that they would like to do next year. 

“We know from previous applications that a cash injection in the form of a Community grant can make the difference between a project happening or not happening. If you have an idea for a great community project, I urge you to check the grant criteria and, if you meet the requirements, to make sure you apply.”

The deadline for applying for both grants is Monday 4 December. Applications will be assessed in early January. Projects which are recommended for approval will go before Full Council in early January where final decisions will be made. If approved, payments will be made in April/May 2024.

The funding is in addition to Farnham Town Council’s larger grants which it gives to key partner organisations that help to deliver the council’s objectives.