A pot of funding, made up from cash and assets seized from criminals is opening for the fourth time to organisations doing vital work in their area.
The Community Initiatives Fund, led by the Police and Crime Commissioner, was launched in May to support community groups who are helping the vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This fourth round of funding is worth £157,522 and is available for community groups from across the West Midlands to apply for.
This funding comes from items seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Each year, the Police and Crime Commissioner invites local community groups to bid for a grant from the fund. The money must go to community projects and cannot be spent on recruiting officers.
The Community Initiatives Fund has temporarily replaced the Active Citizens Fund.
Announcing the fund, the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Waheed Saleem said: “This fund has been a highlight this year which has helped so many people maintain some contact in what has been a difficult and lonely year in many cases.
“This fourth round of funding is now available and I would encourage those group eligible to apply.
“Building and strengthening communities is a crucial way to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour as well as build cohesion. This fund is doing just that, right across the West Midlands.
“We’ve provided funding for a large number of organisations undertaking all sorts of work, from sports activity to groups combating loneliness.”
The fund opens on 4th January 2021 and applications must be received by 15th January 2021.
Applicants can access more information about the fund and how to apply here.
