Children in Need appeal for 2009

The campaign helps thousands of children each year

Hundreds of organisations are using grant money from Children in Need to help improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people.

Despite the economic conditions, the 2008 Appeal raised a record breaking £37.8m which has helped more than 700 projects across the UK.

In North Yorkshire more than £120,000 has been awarded to four projects in local grants in 2009. In 2008 six projects shared grants worth £300,000.

This year, Friday, 20 November, marks the 30th BBC Children in Need Appeal.

North Yorkshire grants

Amongst those receiving grants this year were Ryedale Special Families in Malton. They were awarded £36,377 of Children in Need money. David Brewster, the organisation's Chief Officer, said the cash means that the charity, which provides a leisure club for children with disabilities, can now continue for the next three years.

Scarborough & District Family Mediation Service was another recipient of grant money in 2009. They received £60,179 to help fund a child meeting place contact centre. The project enables children to meet and stay in touch with non-resident family members.

BBC Radio York's Adam Tomlinson presented the cheques to both organisations and said:

"It's one of those moments that puts things into perspective, meeting people who make a real difference to people's lives."

Find out how your organisation can apply for a grant and for more information about Children In Need 2009 visit the official website.