The Southampton Airport Spitfire Wellbeing Fund has awarded its first grants to Hampshire based community groups.
Launched last year, the Southampton Airport Spitfire Wellbeing Fund provides financial support to community organisations, charities and groups that promote physical activity; protect and enhance mental health in the local community and deliver access to open and green spaces.
The airport committed £100,000 to establish the fund which is managed by an independent board which draws membership from the city and district local authorities in Eastleigh, Southampton, Winchester and Hampshire County Council.
The four successful organisations who shared in the £14,269 following the first meeting include:
- Momentum in Fitness – “Fit for Life” Project for Over 55s - Awarded: £4,410
The “Fit for Life” program offers a free, 12-week functional fitness course specifically tailored for adults aged 55 and over. Hosted at the CrossFit Southampton Gym in Eastleigh, the program uses a unique, person-centred approach to boost confidence and motivation in fitness.
- The Itchen Navigation Preservation Trust - Awarded: £2,360
Dedicated to maintaining the historic Itchen Navigation pathway, the Trust will use the grant to transition from petrol to battery-powered maintenance tools. The tools will be used for regular maintenance ensuring safe, accessible paths, promoting public engagement with nature and improving local environmental quality.
- North Stoneham Community Group - Awarded: £2,500
Launched as part of the national Big Help Out initiative, the North Stoneham Community Group's community garden provides accessible green space for residents, including those without private gardens.
- Youth Options - Awarded: £4,999
Youth Options will use the grant to acquire outdoor learning equipment for programs held at Itchen Valley Country Park in Eastleigh. Designed to strengthen self-esteem, communication skills, and teamwork, these programs offer activities such as tree planting, nature art, and woodwork.
Gavin Williams, Southampton Airport’s Managing Director, said: “The first meeting of the Fund was a real success. The airport has always prided itself in the active role it plays within the communities we serve, and it is really rewarding to know the funding support will enable these four fantastic organisations deliver meaningful and lasting change across the south east.
Councillor Tonia Craig of Eastleigh Borough Council and Chair of the Spitfire Wellbeing Fund, said: “It was great to have our first meeting and to see so many amazing charities, organisations and groups, all who provide vital work across the area, apply for the fund.
“This grant is a fantastic opportunity to support groups with initiatives to enhance health and wellbeing and improve people’s lives. Congratulations to those four groups and I look forward to the boards next meeting.”
Applications will be reviewed by the funds board on a quarterly basis.
More information including an online application form and funding guidelines are available online at: The Health and Wellbeing Fund | Southampton Airport