Projects that support young people, tackle isolation, improve wellbeing and bring communities together are set to receive funding in the latest round of grants from South Cambridgeshire's Community Chest.
The six projects include kayaking, a community board games café, recreational activities for a youth club, volunteering opportunities at a country park and a Christmas- themed project.
The projects will help residents of all ages connect with others, stay active and take part in local community life. An additional project is also supporting local biodiversity.
They are:
Comberton Baptist Church - £281 to help create a free monthly Community Board Games Café. The initiative will bring residents of all ages together for an afternoon of games, conversation and free refreshments, helping to tackle loneliness and promote wellbeing. The funding will buy a library of board games that will also be used by the church's weekly EDGE Youth Club, which supports around 40 young people each week.
Papworth Team Ministry - £2,000 towards equipment for The Venue Youth Drop-In in Papworth Everard. The free service provides a safe and welcoming space for young people aged 11 to 17 to socialise, build friendships and access support from trained volunteers. Funding will help purchase activities and equipment including outdoor table tennis, board games, sports equipment and creative resources.
Cambridge Sport Lakes Trust - £1,538 to purchase two battery-powered lawnmowers for use by community volunteers at Milton Country Park. The equipment will support the park's thriving volunteer programme, which provides practical outdoor opportunities for people of all ages and abilities, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The new lawnmowers will also help reduce emissions and noise pollution compared with petrol-powered alternatives.
Bar Hill Community Association - £1,807 towards its Diamond Jubilee Christmas Project. The funding will support the installation of a permanent living Christmas tree in the village square, along with festive lighting, decorations and community activities. The project aims to create a lasting community asset while enhancing the village's annual Christmas celebrations.
Cambridge Canoe Club - £1,009 to expand its sea kayaking equipment resources. The investment will improve safety and accessibility, particularly for junior, female and smaller paddlers, by providing ergonomically suitable equipment and additional safety gear. The project will support training opportunities and help more residents benefit from the sessions.
Fowlmere Parish Council - £2,000 in start- up costs to support biodiversity projects across the village. The funding will help deliver habitat improvements, wildflower and bulb planting, meadow restoration and wildlife corridors, creating richer habitats for local wildlife while encouraging residents to get involved in nature recovery initiatives. The emphasis is on creating long-term environmental improvements.
Cllr Dr. Lisa Redrup, Lead Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "These grants make a big difference to the communities that receive them. From helping young people build confidence and friendships, to tackling isolation through community activities and supporting volunteers who care for our shared spaces, each project will have a positive impact on local residents. What I particularly love about this latest round of funding is the variety of activities being supported. Whether it's learning new skills, volunteering in nature or coming together for a community celebration, these projects help create stronger, healthier and more connected communities across South Cambridgeshire."
· More information about the latest grants can be found in this link.
· Community Chest grants help local organisations deliver projects that make a positive difference to residents' lives. Find out more by visiting the webpage.
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