THE DEVON Community Foundation is calling all small charities, community and voluntary groups in the Okehampton area to apply for grants that are available to help relieve deprivation.

Grants are available from a number of funds including the Arnold Family Fund which offers relief to rural and isolated communities and the Throwleigh Fund for Young People.

This second fund is used to support small, informal and mainly volunteer led grassroots community and voluntary groups which work with young people, especially focusing around the theme of accessing Dartmoor.

Grants will be distributed in October but applications need to be received for consideration by August 31.

Over the last eight years Devon Community Foundation has distributed nearly £8-million to over 2,700 projects across Devon. Previous grant applications have included the Lynton and Lynmouth Arts and Music Association (LLAMA) who received a £3,000 donation from the North Devon Relief Fund to help make the 2012 festival possible.

The Children's Summer Club from Barnstaple were given £250 from the Phillip Milton & Co Fund who support voluntary and community groups working with disadvantaged and vulnerable people in the North Devon and Torridge area. The Children's Summer Club helps low income families and children with special educational needs by offering a diverse range of activities.

Martha Wilkinson, chief executive of Devon Community Foundation said: 'This is a fantastic opportunity for small local charities, community and voluntary groups to gain extra funding to continue the excellent work they do in our communities.

'It is through the generous donations we receive that we are able to offer this and it is great to hear the fantastic success stories that come out of our grant giving.'

If you would like any further information about the grants available and how to apply contact Devon Community Foundation on 01884 235887, email [email protected]">[email protected] or visit the website: http://www.devoncf.com/apply-for-a-grant/">www.devoncf.com/apply-for-a-grant/

Grant applications can only be accepted online.