THE deadline is creeping ever closer for charitable groups across Swindon who want to be in with a chance to cash in on thousands of pounds worth of grants.

The Gannett Foundation Fund, the charitable arm of the Adver’s parent company Newsquest, supports non-profit making groups and is now inviting applications for grants of between £1,000 and £50,000.

The foundation supports registered charities with projects which take a creative approach to issues such as education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth work, local problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.

It values projects that bring lasting benefits to communities.

While preference may be given to ideas which create a durable legacy, it will consider projects of limited duration.

In 2011, the Swindon Foodbank received a £1,900 grant which the group used to buy a new computer, storage boxes and a trolley.

Speaking at the time, director Sandra Belsham said: “It is lovely to have a computer that responds quickly and doesn’t keep telling me there is no memory left.

“We have also bought more storage boxes for the warehouse because we have used all the other boxes as we have had to much food given to us.

“We have made full use of the money and it will help us immensely in the ongoing work of Swindon Foodbank.

All applicants must be registered charities and the foundation will not consider anyone who has received a grant from it in the past two years.

Grants will not be given to fund salaries and running costs, appeals as opposed to specific projects, or to promote political or religious groups.

Projects must also bring benefits to the community, schools or hospitals. Each nomination will be judged on its own merits. The trustees’ decision is final.

Applications must use the approved application form, which can be downloaded from swindonadvertiser.co.uk.

The completed form and supporting document should be sent via email to phoward@swindonadvertiser.co.uk by 5pm on Friday, September 20.

Submissions on paper must be sent to the Editor, Swindon Advertiser, 100 Victoria Road, Swindon, SN1 3BE.