CHARITIES are being offered the chance to bag funding through the Daily Echo.

The Gannett Foundation is the charitable arm of Gannett Co Inc, owner of Newsquest Media Group. The company publishes the Daily Echo and other local newspapers, websites and magazines across the UK.

It supports charities in the areas in which it publishes newspapers and websites that take a creative approach to issues such as education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth development, problem-solving in their areas, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.

It particularly values projects that bring lasting benefits to the communities served by Gannett’s papers and websites.

Applications of any size or ambition are invited, but are typically for projects that require and merit awards of between £5,000 and £10,000. However, more modest applications will also be considered.

The Foundation will favour projects that demonstrate good planning, oversight and financial responsibility.

Last year The Crumbs Project, which helps vulnerable adults gain vital work skills, and the Bournemouth Air Training Corps, which teaches youngsters basic flying skills, both received thousands of pounds of much-needed funding.

Crumbs was given more than £7,000, while the ATC was awarded more than £6,000.

To apply, simply fill in the Gannett Foundation Application Form 2014.docx then send it along with supporting documents – including most recent financial accounts and the overall aims of the charity – to amanda.langton@bournemouthecho.co.uk by 5pm on September 12.

Submissions on paper should be sent to: Amanda Langton, Daily Echo, Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 6HH.