A LOCAL charity organisation has received a welcome boost from Hampshire County Council. The council has awarded almost £40,000 to a variety of community organisations. The Kingsley Organisation is £8,000 better off, thanks to county funding earmarked for village halls and church organisations to enable them to meet the needs of local residents. This money will go towards an extensive refurbishment scheme which will see the Kingsley Centre brought right up to date. Among the many services it provides for the community, the Kingsley Centre provides an environment in which young people with disabilities can be encouraged to widen their horizons both emotionally and practically. The training enables them to gain a meaningful occupation, integrate with the community and live independently. "We are really excited that we have been offered a grant of just over £8,000 from the county council, this will go towards our extensive building project," explained Jane Kincaid centre co-ordinator. The works will include a fully accessible main entrance, reception and lounge. The cash will also help to fund the development of a resource and therapy space, meeting rooms, accessible toilets and the replacement of the heating system. Miss Kincaid continued: "As many people are aware, we received a grant of £260,000 from the National Lottery in February. The centre has to raise a further £60,000 to reach its target and this generous donation will certainly help. "We are also hoping to hear from the district council to see if it has been able to offer us a grant as well, so at this stage we are just over halfway towards reaching the £60,000 target. HCC's executive member for recreation and heritage, Margaret Snaith, agreed partnership funding from the Community Buildings Fund for the Kingsley Organisation's improvement project, at her decision day this week. Working with community associations and village hall committees, the council provides funding for the recreational, educational, social and environmental needs of local communities. Mrs Snaith said: "It is essential that these buildings, which play such a pivotal role in community life, are kept in good condition so people can enjoy a range of activities in a safe and comfortable environment. "By providing this funding, we hope to encourage both new and current users to take part in these activities, ensuring more people have access to a better quality of life." Village halls, community and church organisations, which hold community events or activities, can apply for funding from the Community Buildings Fund.
