TIME RUNNING OUT TO VOTE FOR YOUR SALFORD COMMUNITY HERO

Housing association Salix Homes has announced the finalists in its annual Springboard Heroes Awards, but voting closes this Friday, September 8.

For the past year, Salix Homes has been awarding grants to groups and projects across Salford that are making a difference in communities, donating more than £49,000 to dozens of local groups and initiatives as part of its Springboard community grant programme.

Now the landlord has picked four fantastic finalists from the projects it has supported over the past year, who are all in with a chance of winning an extra £1,000, and it’s up to the public to vote for their favourite.

Hundreds of votes have been cast so far, but it’s not too late to vote for your favourite and help them win the cash boost.

Sian Grant, Executive Director of Customers and Communities at Salix Homes, said:

Quote

 

“The Springboard Heroes Awards are our way of recognising some of the amazing work that’s being done in Salford to boost community spirit, promote health and wellbeing, reduce isolation and improve the environment.

“Every single one of our finalists has gone to extraordinary lengths to improve lives and increase opportunities for people and communities, and our Springboard grant programme exists to help them continue the wonderful work they do.

“While they are all worthy winners in our eyes, it’s up to the public to decide who should be crowned this year’s Springboard Heroes winner, and as we enter the final days of voting, we know it’s going to be a very close call, so I’d urge people to cast their vote now and choose their community heroes before it’s too late.”

 

The finalists for the Springboard Heroes Awards 2023 are:

Chandos Bowling Club: 

For more than 50 years, Chandos Bowling Club, based in Weaste, has been at the heart of the community, providing a welcoming sporting and social activity that is open to all. Its members describe it as an “oasis in the middle of Salford” and for many it’s been a lifeline for helping to overcome isolation or mental health issues, offering a safe and inclusive place to exercise, meet with friends and get some fresh air, providing lasting benefits to people’s health and wellbeing.

Ordsall Community Arts Centre: 

This community arts group provides arts and education opportunities for people of all ages, running a wide range of art-based activities including woodwork workshops, sewing and craft, creative writing and knit and natter sessions. The group’s volunteers are real advocates for using art to improve health and wellbeing.

Salford Forum for Refugees and People Seeking Asylum: 

The forum is made up of representatives from local community groups to provide help and support to refugees and people seeking asylum in Salford. Together they organise events and initiatives to help promote community cohesion and create opportunities to bring together people from different backgrounds.

Visit from the Stork: 

This family support organisation provides low-cost access to essential equipment for families experiencing poverty, including nappies, formula and toys, and they also run groups and activities including breastfeeding support and parent and baby classes. They work closely with last year’s Springboard Heroes winner – Manchester City Mission, providing baby and childcare essentials for families on low incomes.

Visit www.salixhomes.co.uk/heroes2023 to watch a short video of each of the finalists and cast your vote online. The deadline for voting closes on Friday, September 8 and the winners will be announced the following week.