NI Groups In With Chance Of £20,500

Thirteen NI organisations have been shortlisted in the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund and are in with a chance of winning £20,500 to benefit their communities.

Northern Irish entries include bids to build sports facilities, provide mobility scooter training and childcare and set up a community relations project in north Belfast.

One overall winner will be awarded £20,500/€25,000 and ten runners up will receive £8,200/€10,000 in November 2012.

32 organisations have also been shortlisted from the Republic of Ireland.

Voting is now live and the public can help decide who should get the cash by clicking on www.coca-cola.ie - the decision will be made half by the public vote and half by a panel of judges.

Maire Campbell, Public Affairs and Communications Director, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland, said: "The response to the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund has been remarkable and we have received many fantastic entries which showcase the inspirational work that takes place in communities.

"It is our hope that the funding will be used on projects that will have a long-term and sustainable benefit. We know from experience that when organisations receive even a little support they can do amazing things. We are very excited about the potential projects in the shortlist."

Voting closes on September 30.

The Coca-Cola Thank You Fund is operated in partnership with The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) and The Wheel.

(NE)