A RAIL operator is opening applications to a community funding program for organisations in Thames Valley, including those from Reading.
Great Western Rail is once again inviting bids for customer and community projects following a £1m investment last year.
After 83 projects were given support through last year’s scheme, GWR has opened applications to schools, colleges, councils, and not-for-profit organisations.
Last year’s fund saw the Greater Change Foundation in Reading given £21,400 to support a multi-agency project designed to reduce homelessness.
Contactless payment terminals were placed around the town to help individuals donate to the charity and support its efforts in helping rough sleepers more easily.
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education promotion charity RC Vision was given nearly £25,000 to give 80 young people an introduction to engineering races.
GWR East growth manager Ed Goose said: “The Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in projects that really make a difference to our customers and communities at a local level.
“We are particularly interested in schemes that benefit customers, increase rail travel, encourage carbon reduction, connect communities, people and places, support economic growth, promote inclusion and diversity, and educational programmes that support careers in rail or increase awareness and experience of public transport and rail safety.
He explained: “This year we are also particularly looking for projects that help veterans, long term unemployed and women and girls.”
“A good bid will show a strong level of community involvement and support and the proposal will have benefits that last beyond the duration of the project.”
Those who address an area of social need and feature links with the railway can make submissions via GWR’s website before Thursday, May 25.
While bids of all sizes will be considered, GWR is particularly seeking small and medium bids to maximise the number of communities it can reach.
Those who address an area of social need and feature links with the railway can make submissions via GWR’s website before Thursday, May 25.
Guidance about how to make successful bid is also available via: gwr.com
