Julian Knight MP has called on local community groups to apply for new funding being made available to support young people.
Over the past seven years the National Express Foundation (NEF) has distributed hundreds of thousands of pounds and helped 14,200 young people. This year it is doubling its funding to commitment, from £150,000 last year to £300,000 in 2018. Local organisations can apply for grants of £2,500, £5,000, £10,000, or £20,000.
As well as funding community groups that work with young people, the NEF also provides grants which help disadvantaged students pursue further and higher education, providing successful schools or colleges with £10,000 a year to cover the costs.
Commenting on news, Julian Knight said:
“Ever since being elected as MP for Solihull I have been bowled over by the strength of the volunteering culture in our town. So much of what makes it such a good place to live and raise a family rests on local people giving so generously of their time, talent, and experience.
“Last year I set up my Solihull Points of Light award to recognise and reward those who go above and beyond for our community, and I have really enjoyed the opportunity to meet volunteers from so many different walks of life.
“That’s why I’m so keen that local groups seize the opportunity offered by this new funding from the National Express Foundation. This grants offer schools, colleges, and community projects the resources to go the extra mile for disadvantaged young Silhillians, and I know they would put the money to good use.”