COMMUNITY groups across Wrexham and Flintshire invited to apply for share of a community fund.

Applications are now open for community groups and charities across the region to apply for a share of £5m funding from Co-op's Local Community Fund.

The fund has supported almost 40,000 unique community projects across the UK since its launch in 2016, with groups receiving more than £100m.

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Co-op is now inviting charities, community groups and voluntary organisations to apply for the latest round of funding.

This year, Co-op is looking to support projects that help create sustainable futures for 'people' and our 'planet'. Groups can apply if they are looking to deliver local projects with a focus on:

• People: supporting young people to fulfil their potential; helping older residents feel connected or improving mental wellbeing

• Planet: tackling climate change, reducing waste and resource use, or protecting nature

The Co-op is also keen to support projects that promote and celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at Co-op said: "As a co-operative, our focus is to deliver increased value for our member-owners and their communities and we know that members really care about supporting local, grassroots projects.

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"Through our Local Community Fund, we're able to support local projects and initiatives that make a real difference to people and our planet in communities across the country."

Successful causes will receive a minimum of £1,000. Wider-reaching benefits include 95% of causes saying they felt more connected with their communities as a result of participating in Co-op's Local Community Fund.

Applications are open until Sunday, July 7 and groups interested in applying can find out more by visiting: https://coop.co.uk/causes