TWO Okehampton charities were last week each given a £3,000 cash bonus from the Lloyds TSB Foundation ? one of the UK?s largest grant-making trusts.
The Ockment Community Centre will put the money towards a manager?s salary, and Okehampton Community Transport will use the funding to meet core costs.
The Ockment Centre provides a meeting place for lectures, adult education classes and leisure activities such as pilates and karate.
The centre also offers space to charities including the Citizen?s Advice Bureau, Home Start and the Council for Voluntary Service.
Okehampton Community Transport provides transport services to older people, those with disabilities, people on low incomes and those living in isolated rural areas.
The charity has volunteers who drive people to medical appointments, as well as to go shopping and take part in social outings.
Judy Pride, who is chair of both charities, said: ?Now that we have this funding we can really concentrate on providing our services to local people who need extra support.
?Both services help to prevent social exclusion which can be caused by issues such as low income and health problems and it?s great the Lloyds TSB Foundation recognises this and has decided to fund our work.?
Clare Bate, branch manager Lloyds TSB Okehampton, said: ?These two charities provide a range of services which are essential to the communities they serve.
?It is good to know this funding has put these voluntary organisations in a stable position to work with Okehampton people in the future.?
The Lloyds TSB Foundation received more than £33-million to distribute to grassroots charities throughout the UK this year, including more than £1-million for groups in the South West.