Stratford Town Trust million pound give-away

Buy photos » Stratford Town Trust Chief Executive Helen Munro - "We are looking for great ideas and innovative projects that would make Stratford a better place to live and work."

MAKING Stratford a million times better is the challenge to townspeople.

Stratford Town Trust is giving away £1million as part of a major new funding initiative called CommYOUnity Challenge. The grant giving charity is offering people the chance to get the cash they need to get their community-driven ideas and projects up and running.

Helen Munro, the Town Trust’s new Chief Executive, said: “We are looking for great ideas and innovative projects that would make Stratford a better place to live and work.

"These projects will need to be significant as the minimum amount successful applicants will receive is £200,000. There’s even the real possibility that we may choose to award the entire £1 million to just one amazing project!

"This money is in addition to the substantial sums that the Town Trust awards, each quarter, through our main grants giving programme.”

Anyone can put forward an idea, whether or not they live in Stratford, but the successful project must be for the benefit of townspeople. Applications are welcomed from organisations, groups and individuals, aged 18 and over, and need to be submitted by May 29.

The Trust then plans to select up to 12 of the best ideas to be fully developed and funding applications made. Help and financial support will be provided during this stage. The winning projects - or project - will be announced in February 2014 at the Pride of Stratford Awards.

Helen added "If you, your group or community project needs funding, we would love to hear from you. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your ideas to life, do something special, and make a difference in your community."

Visit www.stratfords1million.co.uk or call 01908 247634 for further details.

Since 2001, the Trust has approved more than 1,000 grants to schools, community groups, arts organisations, and individuals in need, and has also funded the Christmas Lights and Stratford in Bloom.

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