Community organisations and charities in Suffolk and Essex can apply for grants of up to £1,000 as part of this year’s Sport Relief Community Cash.

A £47,500 pot has been made available for the region, with grants between £500 and £1,000 being awarded to help groups such as help centres, and sports teams.

Applications are open until Monday, February 15.

Last year, the Whitton Youth Partnership benefited from a £1,000 grant, which went towards the partnership’s October half-term club last year.

The project helped up to 60 youngsters aged between eight and 16 take part in activities such as crafts, games and practical exercises at Whitton Parish Hall during holiday time.

The ‘Polar Explorers Holiday Club’ theme allowed the children to build igloos from milk cartons, play dodgeball and speak to visitors from Suffolk police.

The Community Cash grant helped with the running costs of the club , and was instrumental in helping pay for breakfasts and hot meals for the group.

Jim Manning, 61, the partnership’s secretary, said: “On one level you are providing youngsters with somewhere to go which is warm, dry and safe, but the youngsters are learning while they are there, and one of the aims of the week is to help them grow as individuals.”

For many primary school youngsters, they return to help run sessions, and becomes an integral part of their learning and social life.

Mr Manning added: “There is a social element too – they all have a meal together, and the important thing is they built team spirit among themselves.”

To apply for a grant from this year’s Sport Relief Community Cash, visit www.suffolk.cf.org.uk or www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk.