Lochore Welfare FC has become the latest community group to benefit from a scheme developed by the Kingdom Group to support local organisations.

Kingdom Group last week became proud sponsors of Lochore Welfare Football Club’s away kit through its Community Initiatives Fund which is currently inviting applications from other Fife community groups requiring support.

Bill Banks, chief executive of the Kingdom Group, said: “We are very pleased to sponsor Lochore Welfare FC. Kingdom’s aim is to provide more than a home, so through the sponsorship of a community-based football club we are able to provide added value and a community benefit.

“Our Community Initiatives Fund was created to help local community based groups just like Lochore Welfare FC and we wish the team all the best for the rest of the season.”

John Kirkland, chairman of Lochore Welfare, said: “We are delighted that the Kingdom Group have become involved with Lochore Welfare and we look forward to working with them.”

Last year, Kingdom created a Community Initiatives Fund and to prioritise applications for funding which are community-led, provide a community benefit, demonstrate effective partnership working and are in the range of approx. £100-£500 per application.

Calum Kippen, governance manager with Kingdom, said: “We have supported many fantastic organisations in the last year, including annual gala fun day events throughout Fife. We helped Silverburn in Leven regenerate a sensory garden and assisted Cupar community council install handrails at the War memorial. We also purchased equipment for a local playground in Lochgelly and sponsored music events and sports teams.”

Calum added: “The criteria for the fund is to promote or improve the economic, social or environmental wellbeing of Kingdom’s residents or the areas in which Kingdom’s houses are situated and we particularly welcome applications from community lead groups, where small donations can make a difference.”

If you would like more information about the projects and groups that Kingdom has already supported or would like to discuss an application, please contact Calum Kippen, governance manager on c.kippen@kingdomhousing.org.uk.