Voluntary and community groups have eight weeks to apply for grants from a £55,000 fund

Operated by St Albans City and District Council the money is intended to support projects and activities that benefit the community.

Councillor Brian Ellis, the portfolio holder for housing and inclusion said: “We are committed to helping voluntary and community groups deliver projects in our District.

“Every year we offer this financial aid to groups who do so much valuable and important work to support people in difficulty.

“There will be a launch event where groups can find out how to apply for a grant.

"I urge anyone interested to come along.

“Our community fund has benefitted hundreds of people across the District and we want that success to continue.”

Community Central St Albans, an organisation that provides advice to charities, is helping the council organise the fund.

Fourteen projects were funded last year.

A grant of £2,000 to Small Acts of Kindness, for a scheme to help older, isolated people keep warm during the winter.

The Trestle Theatre Company was awarded £3,885 to create an inclusive singing and drama skills group for people from diverse backgrounds.

Hertfordshire Practical Parenting Programme was given £4,000 to provide support for families in crisis.

Applications for this year can be made from May 8 to July 2.

An event is to be held on May 16 when advice will be given on the type of projects eligible for funding.

Representatives of organisations that might qualify for support are invited to attend the meeting at the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans.

Community Central will also be hosting a number of advice surgeries throughout the application period.

These sessions will provide opportunities to discuss project ideas and discuss how to draft applications.

To book a place, please visit Community Central’s website on: www.communitycentral.org.uk/.