Reading Council Allocates £162,000 to Community Groups

Reading Borough Council has announced that 35 community organizations will receive a share of over £150,000 in funding from its Small Grants Fund initiative, which supports grassroots projects aimed at tackling inequality and providing volunteering opportunities. This year, the council allocated a total of £150,000 for the fund, which saw 61 bids submitted, with successful applicants receiving grants of up to £5,000. Notable beneficiaries include Graft Thames Valley Ltd, South Reading over-50’s Social Club, and the Faith Christian Group, which operates food pantries. Additionally, a few proposals were funded from separate budgets for refugees and asylum seekers, bringing the total number of groups supported to 38 and the total funding to over £162,000. Councillor Liz Terry emphasized the program's role in promoting self-sufficiency and improving life chances for residents. The initiative reflects the council's commitment to enhancing community support in areas with the greatest need.