Community organisations across Inverclyde have been awarded almost £90,000 to support residents as temperatures begin to drop this winter.
A total of £89,760 from the council’s Warm Hand of Friendship initiative – a warm spaces programme – has been shared among 59 applicants.
Grants have been made available to churches, community centres, sports clubs and charities as they provide people with practical advice.
Since launching in 2022, the local authority has distributed close to £375,000 to dozens of organisations through the fund and helped thousands of residents in the colder months.
Inverclyde Council leader Stephen McCabe said: “As a council, we have a proud track record of supporting residents during the harsh winter months through various initiatives, including Warm Hand of Friendship which has been hugely successful.
“Working alongside many of the wonderful community organisations we have right across Inverclyde, we are able to offer residents access to a warm space, practical advice and tackle social isolation.
“It also provides much-needed financial support to these community groups at a difficult time of year and encourages residents to make the most of the first-class facilities we have right on our doorsteps.
“Whether it’s popping along somewhere for a cuppa, enjoying soft play with the wee ones or trying something new, Warm Hand of Friendship offers something for all ages and abilities.”
While the funding covers the period from December to March, some groups have already started activities.
Warm Hand of Friendship launched in 2022 in response to the cost-of-living crisis and in September last year was extended until 2027.
Successful applicants have been notified and payments processed. The fund remains open for further applications which will be reviewed after the Christmas break.
