A Blacon youth club has been saved from closure thanks to a £500 grant.
Catch22, supported by volunteers, was in such dire need of funding that without the grant it would have been forced to close its doors to the public in April.
Set up to support young people from Blacon aged seven-11, thanks to Equilibrium Asset Management, the group can continue to help develop confidence, social skills and positive friendships, whilst encouraging members to give back to the wider area through regular community projects such as gardening.
Catch22 is the second group to receive a grant since Equilibrium’s Chester Community Support Scheme launched in Chester for 2016.
Now in its second consecutive year, the scheme enables local charities and organisations to apply for grants to further support the work they are doing in the Chester area.
The grant will be used to sustain the youth club, covering the cost of activities, group leaders, resources and expenses.
Project worker at Catch22 Gary Saunders said: “Over the years, the club has experienced a reduction in services as well as several changes to the way it is funded.
‘‘Despite these challenges, we have managed to remain operational and provide support to thousands of children. We are delighted to have been brought back from the brink at the eleventh hour thanks to Equilibrium’s kind donation.’’
Partner at Equilibrium Asset Management David McKendrick said: ‘‘Encouraging young people to give back to the community whilst developing essential life skills in a relaxed youth club environment is an extremely valuable asset to any area.
‘‘When we received the application from Catch22 and realised the club was at risk of closure, we were determined to help keep it open for the benefit of the community. We are thrilled that our grant has allowed the group to continue its great work.’’
The Equilibrium Asset Management Chester Community Support Scheme’s panel meet every quarter to decide on the award of grants, ranging between £100 and £500 to community organisations and charities.
Applications for the second quarter of 2016 are now open.
To apply visit http://eqllp.co.uk/the-foundation/chester-community-support-scheme/
