Fund expands to help East Kintyre learners

In a similar way to the EKWT, the EKCF has supported ventures that range from large-scale endeavours, such as the community shop and post office, and the village hall in Carradale, to smaller ones such as Coronation celebrations and IT equipment for the village hall in Peninver. 

Last year, the EKCF awarded over £70,000 to successful applications.

Starting this month, the EKCF will also consider applications from residents of East Kintyre who are studying for a first degree at higher education, or who are doing a further education course, including those attached to an apprenticeship, to help with any associated costs.

Russell Baum, the secretary of the EKCF, said; “The fund has already given awards to schools, but we are particularly excited to be able to give assistance to individuals, as they move on to progress their education, be it academic or vocational, or a combination of the two. 

“The trustees have seen one of our sister bodies, the West Kintyre Community Fund, offer education awards to individuals very successfully, so we anticipate that a similar scheme on the east coast will be well received. 

“Our greatest hope is that those who benefit from our assistance will stay or return to the peninsula so that, indirectly, others can benefit as well.”

A successful applicant will receive £1,500 for each remaining year of their course. More details can be found at www.eastkintyre.org 

The current application window runs from today (January 24) to Friday March 7.