What it is: The foundation was set up in 1999 to be a focal point for the society's charitable giving. It supports registered charities and established good causes throughout the UK picked by the foundation's trustees.

The aim is for building society members to completely fund thefoundation through the company's Small Change, Big Difference scheme.Those involved donate the pence amount of their savings interest ormortgage interest.

How much is on offer: Up to 2,000 in a single donation.

What it will fund: The foundation gives one-off donations rather thancontinuing support to charitable causes in the UK. In particular, thefoundation focuses on supporting charities for vulnerable groups.

Who can apply: The foundation prioritises registered charities thatsupport vulnerable groups, including children. Money is also availableto help individuals by, for example, providing mobility equipment, ifthe request is made via a registered charity.

Who it has funded: Since it began the foundation has donated more than2m to more than 3,000 causes. Of these donations, 75 per centwere to causes nominated by society members. As well as donating tolarge charities, small, local projects have also been helped. Forexample, money was given for Pimhole Community Farm in Bury to buy agoat shed.

How to apply: An application form and detailed list of guidelines andcriteria are available on the web site at www.ybs.co.uk/your_society/charity/foundation.jsp

Staff in local branches can help with an initial assessment of theapplication or they can be sent to: The charitable foundation team,Yorkshire Building Society, Yorkshire House, Yorkshire Drive, BradfordBD5 8LJ.