Affordable housing provider VIVID has launched a new £100,000 grant programme aimed at supporting grassroots community projects across Hampshire through its charitable arm, VIVID Plus.
The Community Investment Fund will provide grants of up to £1,500 for local initiatives designed to strengthen communities, improve wellbeing and support residents across areas where VIVID operates.
The fund is open to charities, community groups, social enterprises and individual residents with project ideas, with applications focused on initiatives where at least 30% of beneficiaries are VIVID customers.
The move comes as housing associations increasingly expand their role beyond housing provision into wider community support, financial resilience and social value programmes amid continuing cost-of-living pressures.
BRIGHTER FUTURES
VIVID says the fund is intended to help both new and existing projects, particularly those focused on strengthening local relationships, tackling isolation and improving opportunities for residents.
Alex Nagle, Customer Services Director at VIVID, says: “We want to provide more than a home. We want our customers and communities to benefit from innovative ideas that lead to brighter futures.
“This funding will allow at least 60 organisations, groups, and individuals to realise their ambitions to improve their local communities and we’re incredibly excited to see the positive outcomes for our customers and communities.”
The programme will be administered in partnership with Action Hampshire, the county-wide organisation supporting charities, voluntary groups and community-led initiatives.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Nicky Judd, Chief Executive of Action Hampshire, says: “Action Hampshire works with inspiring community groups and voluntary organisations every day. We love supporting community-led action as we think communities know best what they need.
“We can’t wait to help the panel select what ideas to fund and see the wonderful projects that VIVID Plus will be making possible.”
The initiative forms part of a growing trend across the housing association sector towards place-based investment and community support schemes as providers look to deliver wider social impact alongside affordable housing delivery.
