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Apr

Last Updated: 30/04/2024

Community

Harrogate charities urged to apply for share of £100,000

by Lauren Ryan

| 30 Apr, 2024

L to R: Matthew Stamford, Sharon Canavar, Bill O’Rourke, Frances Elliot, David Read. Photo credit: Charlotte Gale

Charities and community groups in the Harrogate district have the opportunity to bid for thousands of pounds in funding.

A benefactor left over £100,000 in his will to Harrogate Brigantes Rotary, which raises money to help local and international communities.

The donation was given by a resident and member who wanted to see the funds being put to good use within the district.

Harrogate Brigantes is now preparing to give away £50,000 in the first wave of donations.

Groups are asked to outline why they should benefit. A second phase of funding, again offering £50,000, will be made available at a future date.

Brigantes president Bill O’Rourke said:

“Although we were very saddened to hear the news of our friend’s passing, we were honoured and delighted that they chose to bequeath such an incredible amount of money to us, which will in turn be used to help and support worthy causes across the Harrogate district. They understood our policy of 'making a difference' and wanted to ensure that we continued to have the ability to support local organisations which have a significant impact on the wellbeing of our community.

“In accordance with his wishes we are therefore making a first tranche of £50,000 available to local good causes, with another to follow at a future date. We are now seeking applications from organisations located within the former Harrogate Borough Council district and we are particularly keen to support those which have a strong connection to their local community and for whom a donation would make a significant difference.”

Matthew Stamford, director of estate agent Verity Frearson, Sharon Canavar, chief executive of Harrogate International Festivals and Frances Elliot, chief executive of Harrogate and District Community Action, will draw up a shortlist of applicants.

Mr Stamford said:

“This is such a fantastic amount of money that can do so much good for many groups across the town and the district."

Ms Canavar added:

“We know that Harrogate is home to a great number of wonderful charities and community groups, all of whom need financial support in these difficult times."

Mr Elliot said:

“This money can really make a difference to people and groups within our community, and I would urge anyone who thinks they can make good use of it, to apply.”

Harrogate Brigantes is part of one of the largest humanitarian organisations in the world, with around 1.4 million members across 200 countries and geographical regions.

To find out more click here and to apply for the funding click here.

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Harrogate charities urged to apply for share of £100,000

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