Saffron Building Society is encouraging organisations to apply for their community fund as they top £250,000 in donations.

More than 100 small charities, voluntary organisations and community groups in Essex, Hertfordshire and Suffolk have already benefitted from Saffron Community Fund grants.

The latest round of donations takes the total to a quarter of a million pounds in donations over the last 12 years.

Claire Hunnable, community business partner at Saffron Building Society, said: "That £250,000 has gone straight to supporting the groups and organisations that need it most, ones that are sometimes overlooked when finances and times are tough.

"We're thrilled we’ve reached such a significant figure in our donations – far more importantly, every penny has gone towards making a difference where it counts and in our local area.

"But we’re conscious there are many more good causes that may not be aware this funding is available.

"We’re appealing to you to pass this information on to those who could benefit."

The fund is run in partnership with Essex Community Foundation (ECP).

Applications can be submitted at www.saffronbs.co.uk/saffron-community-fund-2024.

The deadline for applications is Friday, December 6 at 5pm.

One of the organisations to benefit is Saffron Walden Mencap Society, which was awarded a £3,000 grant in July this year.

Saffron Walden Mencap Society received a grant for their allotmentSaffron Walden Mencap Society received a grant for their allotment (Image: Saffron Walden Mencap Society) The society's administrator Jacquie Lucas said: "Saffron Walden Mencap Society are delighted to be given such a generous grant which will help to fund our Growability project for a whole year.  

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"GrowAbility Club offers a unique experience for our members, all adults with learning disabilities, who take part in planting, nurturing and harvesting fruit and vegetables every week at Dig-It Community Allotment."

In addition to Saffron Walden Mencap Society's allotment, beneficiaries which took the grants past the £250,000 mark include CraftAbility - a recreational group for people with physical disabilities in Uttlesford - and Fairycroft House, to support utility bill costs for a community hub in Saffron Walden.

Zoe Brampton, grants manager at ECF, said: "This is a significant milestone for the fund and we are delighted to have helped Saffron give this vital support to local charities and voluntary groups."