Causes in Macclesfield can apply for funding to boost their coffers, thanks to the Co-op.

Applications for the Co-op's Local Community Fund has opened once more.

The initiative, which is supporting eight Macclesfield causes this year, wants to support Macclesfield charities once again next year.

The Local Community Fund supports projects in Co-op members' communities that help to create Sustainable Futures for 'People' and the 'Planet'.

So if you know of a charity or community group that could benefit, then it is time to apply on THIS LINK.

A statement on the Co-op Community Fund webpage said: "Since 2016, we've supported nearly 40,000 local causes and now we're looking for new projects for our members to support. In our next funding round, which starts in October 2024, we'll be supporting communities across the UK with a total of £5m. This means there'll be £6,000 to share between three local causes in each community.

"You can apply if you're a not-for-profit group that needs funding to deliver a specific project that benefits your local community. We will only accept one application per group.

"If your funding application is successful, we'll work in partnership with you for 12 months and your cause will receive funding in November 2025.

"We're looking for projects that enable people to play a part in their community's future by, supporting young people to fulfil their potential, helping older people feel connected and improving people's mental wellbeing.

"We're also looking for projects that help to protect our planet by tackling climate change, reducing waste and resource use, and protecting nature.

"Across both People and Planet themes we're keen to support projects that promote and celebrate diversity and inclusion.

"To apply, your group must; be registered or based in the UK, have its own bank account, deliver activity in your local community, and be not-for-profit.

"You must also provide a Co-op membership number for one of the people making this application (non-members can join online or via the Co-op App)."

Groups that can apply include:

• Churches or Chapels that are excepted charities (that means they do not need to register with the Charities Commission)
• Co-operative Societies
• Community Benefit Societies
• Community Interest Companies
• Credit Unions
• Registered Charities in the UK or Isle of Man
• Social Enterprises
• Scout, Guide or Woodcraft Folk groups
• Any other group that can prove that they are not-for-profit

£6,000 is available in every community and the funding will be shared between three local causes. The amount your project receives will be based on the number of Co-op members that choose your cause.

Every cause will receive a minimum of £1,000.

Causes the Co-op are supporting at the moment include Macc Wild Network, and Macclesfield Young and District Stroke Society.

Applications must be submitted by midnight on 7 July 2024, via this link.