Clarion launches Making a Difference Fund as part of 125th anniversary celebrations

Clarion Futures, the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group, has launched a new grant programme as part of celebrations to mark the housing association’s 125th anniversary.

The Making a Difference Fund will award grants of up to £5,000 to partner organisations delivering projects that will draw people together, sharing hopes, skills and passions for the places Clarion residents call home.

Applications that show meaningful and engaging ideas to connect and celebrate communities will be prioritised, such as murals and art projects, gardening clubs and social inclusion initiatives.

The grant programme forms part of celebrations to mark Clarion Housing Group’s 125th anniversary, with the organisation drawing on its heritage dating back to 1900 when entrepreneur William Sutton left his fortune to build some of the first social housing in London.

125 years later, Clarion remains committed to honouring that legacy through its social purpose, with initiatives like this playing a major role in its work to support its residents and communities.

Phil Miles, Director of Clarion Futures, said:

“As we mark Clarion’s 125th anniversary, we wanted to make sure our residents are at the heart of celebrations. That’s where the idea for the Making a Difference Fund came from, working with our fantastic network of partners to have a meaningful, long-term impact on our communities.

“It’s about reflecting with our residents on where they live and celebrating what makes their neighbourhoods unique, as well as exploring ways to leave a lasting legacy for generations to come, and I’m excited to see what creative ideas are put forward.”

This first phase of the Making a Difference Fund will award £50,000 in grants, with a second phase to follow later in the year with an additional £75,000 available, bringing the total to £125,000. The second phase will fund projects that encourage physical activity and sport, helping to improve wellbeing in Clarion communities.

To ensure community voices are at the heart of the decision-making process, residents will play a key role on the judging panel and help choose the projects to receive funding.

Applications for the first phase of the Making a Difference Fund close at midday on 25 June.