Wight Aid Foundation

The Foundation funds projects that address local needs across the Isle of Wight. Supported causes include children and youth, older people, disability, mental and physical health, poverty and hardship, homelessness, education and skills, employment, arts and culture, heritage, environment, sport and recreation, community development, criminal justice, and carers. Beneficiaries include children, young people, older people, disabled people, unemployed, homeless, carers, and the general public. All funded work must take place on the Isle of Wight. The Foundation prioritises underfunded charities and good causes that help those in need, especially the vulnerable, disadvantaged and disabled.

Registered charities and community groups based on the Isle of Wight can apply for grants. The Foundation supports organisations that deliver direct local benefit to island communities. Priority is given to smaller, underfunded groups working with vulnerable, disadvantaged or disabled people. Beneficiaries include children, young people, older people, disabled people, unemployed, homeless, and carers. The Foundation does not fund grant-making charities, individuals, or organisations with 12 months of reserves. There is no religious restriction.

The Foundation does not fund faith-based or animal charities. It also excludes core costs, salaries, capital works, feasibility studies, and activities that are normally the responsibility of central or local government. Other exclusions include insolvent organisations, those with 12 months reserves, grant-making charities, individuals, loans, business finance, deficits, and endowment funds.

The Foundation awards one-off grants for projects, believing that many smaller grants have greater impact than a few large ones. Grants are made on behalf of fund holders, who highlight issues of local importance. The Foundation welcomes unsolicited applications from eligible organisations.