SWINDON charities have less than a week to explain why they need a cash boost.

Applications for cash from the Advertiser need to be submitted by Wednesday, March 28.

The Gannett Found-ation, the charitable arm of our parent company, is offering grants to the town's charitable projects.

The foundation gives between £1,000 and £5,000 to Swindon charities twice a year, but larger grants may also be made available for exceptional projects.

The Gannett Found-ation supports projects that take a creative approach to issues, including helping disadvan- taged people, neighbourhood improvements, education, youth development and environmental conservation.

The foundation wants as many good causes from around Swindon as possible to take part.

Any organisation wanting to apply has to tell us why it makes a valuable contribution to the community and how the money will be used to help with its work.

Last year Swindon Ten To Eighteen Project - Step - was given £2,750 to buy two new laptops, a printer and software.

Johanna Bryant, of Step, said: "I would recommend that other charities apply for the money, because it means they might be able to do that little bit more for the community."

Prospect Hospice was awarded a £15,000 grant, which it used to buy a van for its seven shops in Swindon, Wootton Bassett, Marlborough and Pewsey.

North Wiltshire Women's Refuge has also received a grant in the past.

The refuge was awarded £1,000 and used the money to buy a computer, workstation and printer for a new children's playroom.

To enter, all applicants must be registered charities and willing to co-operate in publicising the grants.

All applications must be submitted on the approved application form. Application forms can be downloaded from www. swindonadvertiser.co.uk.

For more information call 01793 501843 or email editor@newswilts.co.uk.