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Communities across Huntingdonshire will see new activities, improved spaces and strengthened local services thanks to 38 community groups receiving funding through the 2025/26 Community Chest Grant Scheme.

From village halls and heritage projects to local events and volunteer-led initiatives, organisations across the district will share grants ranging from £200 to £3,000—support that helps them deliver projects that directly benefit residents.

Since launching on 1 April 2020, the Community Chest has now funded 197 community projects, awarding a total of £200,000 over six years.

Cllr Sally Howell, Executive Councillor for Communities, Health and Leisure, praised the energy and dedication of the local groups who make these projects possible:

“At the heart of Huntingdonshire are the people who give their time, skills and passion to make their communities better. The Community Chest exists to support them. Almost 200 local groups have now been able to bring ideas to life—improving village halls, running local events, celebrating our heritage and creating welcoming spaces for everyone. This year’s projects once again show how much can be achieved when communities are empowered.”

This year’s community impact

Of the 38 funded projects this year, each one is rooted in local need and led by dedicated volunteers or community organisations:

  • 18 projects will deliver long-term improvements for local residents

  • Great Staughton Playing Field Committee will install battery storage in the Pavilion, contributing to a more sustainable community facility

  • The St Ives Chapel Through the Ages heritage project, run by the Herbert Ellis Library and Museum, will help residents explore and celebrate the area’s history

  • 15 community spaces will be improved or refurbished thanks to the grants

  • This includes support for the Pidley Social Club refurbishment, helping maintain an important social and support hub for the village

  • 4 community events have received funding to help bring people together

  • The Godmanchester Town Show, for example, secured funding for extra display tables to enhance this well-loved annual event.

Further information about future Community Chest funding rounds will be available on the Grants webpage when the next allocation opens.