Community centres across the Test Valley could benefit from a £10,000 cash injection.
Updated guidance from the government confirmed that they could claim the same support grant offered to businesses impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.
Ninety centres are eligible for the grant in the Test Valley and Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) is writing to each of them to encourage them to apply for the funding.
With no bookings due to the nationwide lockdown, and the continued burden of energy bills and other expenses, many community halls have been hit hard by the pandemic.
The £10k grants may provide a lifeline for those struggling.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said, “I am really pleased that the government has confirmed that community centres will also be eligible for the business support grants.
“These halls are integral to their local communities and play a vital role in bringing residents and groups together. Sadly they currently sit empty but these grants should see them through to the time when the restrictions are lifted and they are able to reopen once again.
“Our teams are working hard to get the business support grants out as quickly as possible. To date, we have processed and paid 1,329 grants to the value of £16.35 million.
“I would encourage all those eligible to apply for the funding.”
More details can be found on the TVBC website at www.testvalley.gov.uk
