Now in its third year, the Play it Forward Fund is open to clubs across the region, offering support for equipment, kits, facility upgrades, and training fee subsidies.
Around 40 organisations in Cumbria have benefited from the fund, including Threlkeld Cricket Club near Keswick.
Michael Webster, treasurer of Threlkeld Cricket Club, said: “That’s broken down into all sorts, whether that be kits, clothing, things like stumps, a catching net, balls – they’re quite expensive – and bats; you need different sizes because kids are different sizes.
“We got wicket-keeping equipment too because you need a wicket-keeper.
“When you’re looking at up to 30 kids of various heights and sizes it all adds up.”
The money has helped the club provide equipment for its junior players, aged five to 14.
Funding has also gone towards supporting the club’s efforts to attract new members.
Mr Webster said: “The grant will help us promote the club and maximise participation.
“We don’t want children not giving cricket a try because their parents can’t afford to or don’t want to splash out cash on something which might just be a short-term interest.
“We think having kit and equipment available makes a significant difference.”
He said the support from Fibrus has eased financial pressures and allowed the club to continue its growth.
Mr Webster said: “The support from Fibrus is really generous and helpful.
“It reduces the pressure to find funds to carry on with what we’re doing.
“We’re a small club, but we’ve got quite high aspirations, and we keep growing and building – we’re launching another midweek side next year.
“And without other organisations supporting us, it’s just not possible because, even with all the volunteers and best will in the world, without cash, you do get a little bit stuffed.”
Linda McMillan, chief people officer at Fibrus, said the company is proud to support grassroots sport.
Ms McMillan said: “We are committed to playing a role in improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people, so investing in local communities is very important to us.
“Our Play It Forward Fund is just one way we try to give back to the communities which we serve.
“I’m delighted to see a new batch of clubs benefitting from our sports fund.”
The next round of funding is now open and will close at 12 noon on Friday, October 3.
Applications can be submitted at www.fibrus.com/play-it-forward-fund.
