A leading regional builder has announced its decision to extend a popular community cash giveaway scheme for another year with thousands of pounds available for Shropshire charities.

Wolverhampton-based Persimmon Homes West Midlands is now urging community groups, charities and good causes across the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire to continue applying to its Community Champions scheme.

The fund was initially launched in March 2015 and was due to run for one year to support grassroots activities that improve the quality of life for local people.

The scheme invites local groups and charities to bid for cash from a £720,000 national fund, with two donations of up to £1,000 being made locally every month on a match-funding basis. The donations are made across Persimmon Homes’ 28 regions, as well as from its Space4 timber frame business and from the PLC head office.

John Cosgrave, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said they had been overwhelmed by the response to the scheme, with hundreds of groups applying nationally every month throughout the year.

“Our Community Champions scheme has certainly struck a chord with many charities and worthy causes, and we are delighted to announce that it will continue for another year,” he said.

“We hope that our funding of £24,000 for the next 12 months can make a huge difference across our region. We want to hear from everyone as we’re determined to donate our money where it will help the most.

“All we ask is that the group or charity has already worked hard to raise money themselves, and we will then match this effort with funding of up to £1,000. It is also really simple to apply for, with groups and charities invited to visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity and complete an online application form.”

Charities helped by Persimmon Homes West Midlands during the past 12 months include Bridgnorth Lions annual prostate screening event, Wyldwoods CIC, Shropshire and Staffordshire Blood Bikes and Flicks in the Sticks.