This month, 114 community groups and organisations across Wales are welcoming a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund. Grants are being awarded to support communities through the Cost of Living crisis as well as a range of other community activities. They each receive a share of £5,090,187 for their community to prosper and thrive. 

In Wrexham, We Are Plas Madoc have £43,725 of National Lottery money to further develop their electric vehicle community transport scheme. They provide an affordable and environmentally-friendly transport option to residents in and around the area of Plas Madoc so that they can access essential services, food, and recreational activities.   

They will also expand their provision at their premises to further develop their Kettle Club breakfast and lunch club to support their community during the Cost of Living crisis by providing a warm, safe space and access to a range of local services.   

Claire Pugh, of We Are Plas Madoc, said: “This funding is welcomed at a vital time – the cost-of-living crisis is adding to the existing social and financial impact of COVID-19 and this investment is timely and appreciated as it is enabling us to develop our services in response to these challenging times.

“Thanks to this funding we are able to further develop a community transport scheme that will provide affordable, accessible transport that will not only take people to essential medical appointments and shopping trips but will also support people to socialise, to spend time with others and will be a lifeline for many.

“Additionally, we will run a number of different social groups that will provide a safe and warm environment where everyone is welcomed – people can come along to meet others, share a hot meal and access other support if needed.

“The cost-of living crisis is a huge worry for everyone, and these projects will help us to support our community, we’re so grateful for this funding, made possible by the National Lottery and all the supporters – thank you!

Llanbister Ti a Fi in Powys will use £8,000 to purchase new toys, crafting materials, and equipment for their play group and create a toy library for families that are rurally isolated or affected by the Cost of Living crisis.  

Lilly Thomas, Chairman at Llanbister Ti a Fi, said: “We’re extremely grateful to The National Lottery Community Fund for this grant toward our playgroup in Llanbister. It will support our children’s development through a wide variety of toys as well as families in the surrounding areas who will have access to them, that may not have otherwise. It will also aid parents through support services we will bring into group.” 

Ty’n y Wern Primary School in Caerphilly will provide a cosy corner to support vulnerable community members affected by the cost-of-living crisis over the winter months. £7,500 will fund a warm space with furniture, tablets and TV, refreshments, kitchen, and baby and toddler equipment.  

Joanne Tudge, a parent who uses the Cosy Corner, said: “The Cosy Corner is a great idea. We can pop in for tea and toast and have a chat in the warm after school drop off.  With the worries about the cost of living this will be a lifeline for many”. 

Elsewhere, other groups that have been given a grant include Pwll Action Committee in Carmarthenshire. They were successful in applying for £3,779 to hold a carnival, fête and gala where the whole community can be involved in preparation, planning and volunteering for the event in summer 2023. 

Stuart Messer, Chairman at the committee, said: “We haven’t had a Carnival and Gala in our Village for over 30 years and we never thought we would be in a position financially to have one again. Thanks to a grant from the National Lottery our dreams will come true in June 2023. We would like to thank everyone involved in the National Lottery for their assistance in funding this event.” 

Oasis One World Choir Community Interest Company will increase the number of activities they offer including specific workshops as part of the Ukraine and Afghanistan resettlement scheme.  They aim to  improve knowledge and understanding of the refugee community , while increasing the confidence and mental wellbeing of participants. £93,884 over three years will fund staff, including guest tutors. 

Laura Bradshaw, Music Director, said: “Being awarded this grant for 3 years means that we can continue the sessions we are doing at Oasis Cardiff and develop our project to give more people seeking sanctuary the opportunity to take part. We can more fully share our work, inviting more collaborations with different institutions and diverse communities and really work towards our multi stranded goals of wellbeing, fun and integration by devising new ways, with our participants of sharing cultural capital.  

“This will help our diverse choir members to enhance their sense of belonging in Wales as well as more of the public losing their fear of differences as their lives are enhanced by the singing with the whole world… which is how it feels when you sing with the human beings of Oasis One World Choir. Thank you National Lottery.” 

Create at Greenspace in Carmarthenshire will combine writing and images to promote discussion, and creative thought. They will provide an opportunity for those on low incomes, students with disabilities and carers to express themselves and socialise. £10,000 will cover the costs of tutors, room rental, and materials. Some members of their group said: “As an unpaid carer being able to have a day with no responsibilities whilst having the opportunity to just chat and create in a supportive environment, is really wonderful.”  

Another, said: “Greenspace has been a real life saver for me. During the bad covid times it was somewhere I could go and feel safe amongst other people like myself who were struggling with parts of their lives. When I was home educating my teenage daughter it was somewhere relaxed and understanding that she could go to and socialise. Now I love going there as I learn new things and get to meet new people in a friendly and judgement free environment.” 

John Rose, Wales Director at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The Cost of Living crisis is a growing concern for people and communities across Wales, and we are listening to what people tell us about the challenges they face.   

“All of our funding remains open and available, and National Lottery money is available to support communities through this difficult time. We are being flexible and adaptable to the needs of communities.”