NAAFI Fund awards over £850,000 to 80 new Armed Forces projects
The Trust is thrilled to announce that NAAFI Fund has awarded another 80 grants to projects all over the world. These awards support the British Armed Forces and Armed Forces communities.
In this latest round, being healthier and active is a big theme. More than ever there is an increased need for sociable outside spaces with projects wanting to create, refurbish and improve. The NAAFI Fund has met project requests for fun and enjoyable sporting equipment, such as mountain bikes and stand-up paddle boards. These will improve mental health through exercise and activity.
A bowling boost to benefit Serving Personnel and their families
Over thirty of the eighty grants have been awarded to overseas projects. One such project was given £25,000 for the ‘Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) Bowling Alley Refurbishment’ project. The British Forces South Atlantic Islands applied for the funds for a much-needed update to their popular Forces and family’s bowling facility.
The Mount Pleasant Complex Bowling alley is used by both deployed and Continuity Tour personnel and their families. Wg Cdr Rich Pountney told the Trust why the grant was needed…
“£25,000 towards the MPC Bowling Alley refurbishment will be greatly received by all those accompanied or unaccompanied military personnel, contractors and civil servants at MPC. The Bowling Alley has been long overdue a refurbishment and is located at the heart of the MPC welfare hub. This facility benefits personnel from the Whole Force and their families. This grant from the NAAFI will ensure this vital welfare facility will continue to be enjoyed for many more years to come.”
Making a noise with NAAFI
Prince William of Gloucester Barracks Station, sought funding to provide a recreational area for their service personnel and Armed Forces families. The project ‘Station Welfare Area Refurbishment’ aims to cultivate an indoor and outdoor space that is safe, inclusive and modern, hoping that this will encourage socialising, whilst enhancing morale and team cohesion. The funding would support the purchase of a new a sound system and much more. The NAAFI Fund’ awarded the project ‘Station Welfare Area Refurbishment’ £20,000.
Major Guy Page explained how the money will help improve family and forces life on base…
“The Army Training Regiment (Grantham) is delighted to receive a grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Trust Fund this year. The funding will have an exponential impact on the lives of all service personnel and their families by refurbishing the Station Welfare Facility. We’re very grateful to the NAAFI Trust for their continued support and look forward to working with them to deliver this amazing facility.” Maj Guy Page AGC(SPS)
The Trust is delighted to play a part in supporting these latest fantastic projects. Anna Wright, Chief Executive of the Trust said:
“We’re delighted to be able to support another 80 NAAFI projects, ensuring that more posting locations for our serving personnel see positive uplifts and improvements, especially in enabling people to become healthier and more active. We’re excited to see the difference this funding makes as projects get underway.”
Find out more
Thanks to NAAFI, this funding will continue to be provided annually in the years to come. You can find more information on our NAAFI Fund programme page, where you’ll also find a full list of awards made.