Community groups in West Dunbartonshire have benefited from more than £170,000 in Council grants to run community groups and facilities for vulnerable and disadvantaged residents.
The money was used for running costs including staffing, training and equipment as well as community events, gala days, rent for community venues and a caravan for holidays for disabled children.
In 2015/16, 27 groups received £67,364 of voluntary grants from West Dunbartonshire Community Volunteer Service (WDCVS) under the Community Chest, Cultural and Playscheme, with a further £104,060 paid out to 51 organisations under the Social Transport Grant Scheme.
Councillor Kath Ryall, Convener of West Dunbartonshire Council’s Corporate Services Committee, said: “This money has been a lifeline for community groups that deliver important services to some of our most underrepresented residents. As a Council we are dedicated to tackling discrimination and involving underrepresented groups, and some of these organisations have a vital part to play in helping us achieve that. I hope we can continue to work together going forward to ensure all our residents enjoy the best possible quality of life.”
Vice-Convener, Councillor Tommy Rainey, added: “This money helps to sustain the great work carried out by these groups which is clearly making a difference to the lives of many residents across West Dunbartonshire. I am delighted we are able to help so many deserving groups which in turn are helping to make West Dunbartonshire a great place to live and work.”
West Dunbartonshire Councillor Martin Rooney 