By Isle of Wight Observer
Community groups still have s short time to apply for Isle of Wight Foundation grants before the window closes on June 15.
Since 2014, the foundation, made up of the companies behind Island Roads, has awarded grants of between £3,000 and £16,000 to projects which help build better communities or support people to access employment or housing.
One recent recipient is the Bay Youth Project (BYP), which received £14,000 to help create a grassroots music and media project within the renovated Sandown Town Hall, in Grafton Street.
The project, called Link, is based around sport and the arts and supports young people aged between ten and 18.
One young person, aged 14, said: “It’s been very helpful and has allowed me to learn a new skill that I probably wouldn’t have ever done if it wasn’t for the studio and staff at Link.
“I get excited to attend and play the bass guitar and look forward to developing my skills and showing them off to others.”
Jake, BYP’s music, multi-media and arts co-ordinator, said the studio had given young people access to equipment which helped build skills, confidence and self-belief.
The foundation has awarded more than £900,000 since 2014.
It is made up of Ringway Island Roads, Island Roads Services, Vinci Concessions and Meridiam, with the money provided as charitable donations separate from highways services.
IW Foundation chairman Eddie Fellows said: “Although we have already received some quality applications there is still time to get your applications in.”
Visit iw.observer/iw-foundation.
