charities and not-for-profit organisations yesterday.

Focus counselling services got cash to buy homes, Habitat for Humanity got money for affordable housing, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival will spend its award on education and St. George's Preparatory School will use its share towards replacing the school floor.

David Lang, vice president and trust manager of the Bank of Bermuda, said: "It is pleasing to once again be able to fund such a diverse group of worthwhile projects that will benefit a large cross-section of the community.

"There are an incredible number of charities on the Island and we only wish we could financially support all of their wonderful, creative projects.'' Mr. Lang said the next deadline for the quarterly awards was December 29.

Forms can be collected from any branch of the bank.