SOLIHULL groups taking part in a celebration of strength and diversity this weekend have been given a cash injection.
The groups have been celebrating more than £9,000 of National Lottery funding to host community-led activities as part of the first West Midlands Mayor’s Community Weekend since the pandemic.
Taking place on Saturday and Sunday (September 9 and 10), the weekend returns thanks to a partnership between Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK.
The Mayor’s Community Weekend aims to celebrate the strength and diversity of West Midlands’ communities by bringing people together.
The Solihull Moors Foundation will be hosting a community fun day as part of the celebrations.
Also, Solihull Down Syndrome Support Group will be raising awareness of the Down syndrome community in the area with an awareness walk around Brueton Park, followed by a picnic to celebrate and strengthen local connections.
Meanwhile, Snooty Pooch canine café and community hub in Drury Lane will celebrate volunteers with a range of performances, activities and the creation of a permanent art display.
Mr Street said: “We know just what a remarkable source of strength our region’s diverse communities continue to be.
“That’s why I’m so pleased that – after a Covid-induced hiatus – the Mayor’s Community Weekend is back.
“This will be a wonderful opportunity for local people to come together – celebrating community spirit at its very best. I cannot wait to see it all in action.”
Groups across the West Midlands have been awarded more than £170,000 of National Lottery funding to host 100 community-led activities over the weekend. Events will encourage people to engage with their communities, bring different groups together to strengthen connections, and build new relationships.
Nicola Thurbon, head of regional funding for the Midlands at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The groups we have awarded funding to – and the large number of excellent applications we received – are testament to the creativity and commitment of diverse communities in the West Midlands. We hope everyone has a great Mayor’s Community Weekend.”
For more about the Mayor’s Community Weekend, click here.
