This year’s groups support everything from sport and youth activities to wellbeing, music, safety and volunteering.

• Annan Riding of the Marches
• Kilwinning Football Academy 2008
• 4th Irvine Boys Brigade
• Heathhall Community Centre
• The Argyle Community Shop
• 34th Ayrshire 1st Mauchline Scout Group
• Tass Thistle 2012’s
• The Scottish Centre for Personal Safety
• Ardeer Thistle Girls U10’s & U12’s
• Inspire, Motivate, Celebrate
• Garnock Valley Helping Hands
• Kate’s Kitchen
• Largs Music Club
• Lockerbie Ice Rink
• Kilwinning Rangers Girls U12’s
• Eglinton Park Path Stewards
• Ardeer Thistle 2011
• Kilwinning Rangers 2014’s Blues

Along with these awards, a separate donation has been made to Arran Mountain Rescue Team to support them to buy a new rescue stretcher.

Cunninghame CEO, Jacqueline Cameron, opened the event, where cheques were presented before everyone enjoyed lunch and had some time to chat and connect.

She said: “At CHA, we are passionate about supporting communities and want to fulfil our mission to be more than just a landlord. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to hear first hand how the fund will help local groups to thrive in their communities.”

One of the groups said the funding will make a big difference to what they can do locally: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen to receive this funding. It will do wonders for our group!”

The Making Our Communities Better Places Fund helps support local groups and projects that bring people together and help communities thrive. Keep an eye on the housing association’s social media to find out when next year’s applications open.