WYRE Forest has received more funding through the Worcestershire Community Foundation (WCF) than any other district of the county n the last three years.

Beneficiaries of grants include Wyre Forest Nightstop (£11,000), Home Start (£6,296) and Bewdley Town Football Club (£1,000) who benefited from community cash through the European Social Fund and a Midcounties Co-operative scheme.

WCF aims to connect those with resources and money, with local organisations which have the capacity to change the lives of the disadvantaged for the better.

In 2009-10, the UK network of over 50 community foundations, including Worcestershire, distributed more than £70 million in grants for national charities like Comic Relief and Sport Relief to grassroots organisations across the UK.

Using its local expertise, with the help of its community-based trustees and patrons, the Worcestershire foundation also involves businesses in a 100 Club to boost community projects across the county.

WCF ensures the money invested from the 100 club is distributed as grants to make a lasting difference to local community initiatives.

WCF chairman Rob Sykes said: “WCF aims to create a sustainable grants’ programme for our county, in order to ensure present and future generations have the support to improve their life opportunities.

“From helping fund golf for the visually impaired to community shops, our focus at all times is on Worcestershire as a community.”

Businesses make an annual donation to the 100 Club of £1,000 for a minimum of three years and the money goes directly to good causes in the county.

Half is used immediately to support local needs with the remainder invested, enabling the income to be used as future grants to local groups.

Currently, Comic Relief and Mid Counties Co-operative funds are available and further information is available from WCF on 01562 733133.