CHARITIES in the Gazette circulation area have until Friday, September 30 to bid for a Gannett Foundation Fund grant this autumn.

The US parent company of Newsquest Media Group, owners of the Gazette, is this year making available $970,000 for qualified, non-profit-making organisations which help and support community groups and are registered charities.

Previous successful applicants include Yercombe Trust, Southwold Young People's Hostel Association, Cotswold Vale Talking Newspaper and Avon Youth Association sensory garden project in Thornbury.

Applications forms are available on request from the Gazette head office at Reliance House, Long Street, Dursley, Glos GL11 4LS (tel 01453 544000, fax 540208).

Application guidelines for 2005 include:

What does the Gannett Foundation support?

The Gannett Foundation supports projects which take a creative approach to fundamental issues such as education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth development, community problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment. Priority is given to youth projects, particularly engaging and involving young people in the development of those projects; and projects that benefit people with special needs either through disability or disadvantage.

Is there anything that is definitely excluded from getting a grant?

Grants will not be given to: * Individuals * Organisations which are not registered charities * National or regional organisations unless the project addresses specific local community needs * Promotion of religious cause * Uniformed groups * Endowment funds * General appeals or multi-year campaigns * Medical or research organisations * Animal charities * As part contribution to a salary whether part- or full-time

What size of grant can my group apply for?

Grants will be for £1,000-£5,000 but larger grants may be made for exceptional projects.

How to apply?

Applications must be submitted on the application form which can be obtained from the Gazette head office.

The newspaper will expect you to co-operate with reasonable arrangements for publicity for any grant given and in some cases may ask for the Gannett Foundation/newspaper logo to be displayed on major items of equipment such as minibuses.