THIRTY-FOUR projects across Dumfries and Galloway shared £407,015 of funding to help support communities and tackle the cost of living.
Round three of the Community Led Local Development Fund saw a total of 103 applications asking for just under £2.2 million.
A Local Action Group (LAG) made up of representatives from the third, public, and private sectors again decided what applications were successful, supported by Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway (TSDG).
Some of the projects that have received cash includes Haugh of Urr Village Hall which netted £11,000 to renovate the hall’s extension to improve community facilities and meeting spaces.
Dumfries Pipe Band will get £1800 to support professional tutors and delivery costs for regular use of the Troqueer Community Hall.
Also, £45,000 has been funded to the The Food Train which will provide nutritious hot meals to elderly residents at risk of malnutrition, especially in rural areas.
The Stove Network will get £13,040 to establish a print room for marginalised groups to explore creative self-expression through different forms of media.
Harry Harbottle, chairman of the LAG, said they were pleased to be able to offer the grants to organisations across the region.
“Many of these groups, mostly run by volunteers who are champions in their own communities, are in crisis dealing with vulnerable people suffering the harsh effect of our economic situation,” he said.
“A good few of these grants were for under £10,000 illustrating that, even with relatively small amounts of money, we can make a big difference and demonstrate value for money with the public purse.
“Unfortunately, the fund was seriously oversubscribed meaning that we could not help all the deserving causes. We are hoping that this fund will be continued next year at a level more commensurate with the need we see across Dumfries and Galloway.”
