The National Express Foundation is marking its tenth anniversary with a raft of new community grants which will benefit young people.

This year National Express Foundation invited local community groups to apply for a share of £90,000 of funding to help disadvantaged young people to succeed in life.

The funding provides support to community groups that are making a positive input to the lives of young people and setting them up for success in the future.

Since it was launched in 2012 the Foundation has supported more than 25,000 young people through £1.5 million of funding. It aims to support groups with initiatives that deliver developmental, educational and social activities for local young people across the West Midlands.

This year, 20 local groups have been awarded funds. Tom Stables, National Express Foundation chair of trustees, said:

“This year marks a decade since the Foundation was created, and I am very proud of everything we have achieved and the number of young people we have helped.

“The community groups we support have such a huge impact on the lives of young people, and I am delighted to be able to provide further funding to enable them to continue their great work.”

Olio Hub will use their £5,000 award to expand its activities, allowing more young people to participate and also to renew equipment. Sandra Adams, Olio Hub, added:

“The funds awarded to Olio Hub will enable our young people to take part in rewarding positive physical and academic activities. We will continue to encourage engagement with participants learning and sharing skills leading to a brighter future for all.”

Sandwell Steelers will use their £5,000 award to launch a junior rugby programme, with the right equipment to ensure young people can participate in the support being offered. Jamie Kelly, Sandwell Steelers, said:

“This funding allows the Sandwell Steelers to launch a brand new Junior program for the 16-18 years olds of Sandwell and the West Midlands.

“While this equipment will make the sport more accessible to all in this age group, increasing participation in a physically and mentally rigorous sport, it also allows our academy players to continue their journey with the Steelers, maintaining the bonds they’ve made with their teammates on and off the field that otherwise may have been lost.”