CHARITIES in York and North and East Yorkshire which benefit local communities are being given a chance to bid for cash from the Gazette & Herald’s parent company.

Grants are offered 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 owner of the Gazette & Herald.

The Foundation supports charities with practical and creative projects to tackle issues such as neighbourhood improvement and local problem-solving, economic development, youth development, education and cultural enrichment, care of elderly or infirm, help for the disadvantaged or disabled, and environmental conservation.

A spokesman said: “In the last 10 years alone, the Gannett Foundation has made grants in the UK totalling nearly £4 million. We value practical and creative projects that bring lasting benefits to the communities and neighbourhoods served by our newspapers and online audience.”

Last year, it awarded a grant of £7,200 to Acorn Community Care, in Norton, for a walk-in cold room for a farm shop. Wilberfoss, Kexby and Newton Playing Fields Association received a grant of £1,000 to buy a defibrillator pack. Lastingham Village Hall was given £480 for a screen and projector.

This year it encourages applications for projects that address needs of rural communities, but will consider all other applications that meet general criteria. Typically grants are modest, meeting everyday needs, but the Foundation will consider worthwhile projects on a bigger scale. It is able to join with other contributors to support elements of larger projects. Decisions will be made by trustees on evidence submitted, favouring projects with good planning, oversight and financial responsibility. Copies of the charity’s most recent financial accounts required.

How to apply

APPLICATIONS must be on approved application form, downloaded from Gazette & Herald website at gazetteherald.co.uk/gannett. Send the form and supporting documents electronically via email to nadia.jefferson-brown@nqyne.co.uk. If unavoidable, send on paper to Nadia Jefferson-Brown, Gazette & Herald, 84-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN. All must arrive by 5pm, October 14, 2016.