Local voluntary and community groups have the opportunity to apply for grants. Applications are welcome from projects or charities whose work focuses on children, disadvantaged communities, medical support and elderly people.

In 2003 nearly £10,500 was distributed through the University of Bristol RAG Fund.  The maximum amount organisations can apply for is £1,000.

Grants awarded in previous years include:

• facilitators to work with a support group for women who self-harm;
• sending families with children suffering from cancer on holiday;
• helping an organisation's counselling work with children.

Cat Dix, RAG Chair, said "The amazing thing about RAG is that it is run entirely by student volunteers, who understand that every penny raised will make a difference."

For an application form contact the Greater Bristol Foundation on 0117 989 7700 or email info@gbf.org.uk

Grants can not be used for general running costs.

RAG is a year-round student run organisation that raises money for local and national charities through street collections and events.  It is one of the largest societies in the University of Bristol Students' Union.  Last year they donated £80,000 to local and national charities.

Greater Bristol Foundation is a community foundation, which manages and distributes funding on behalf of individuals, companies, charitable trusts and statutory agencies to meet needs in and around Bristol.