Old Possum's Practical Trust Grants

Old Possum's Practical Trust was founded in January 1990 by Valerie Eliot and endowed in 2001 with funds from the musical Cats. The Trust distributes approximately £250,000 per annum in grants, with individual awards typically ranging from £500 to £5,000. Since its formation, the Trust has given away just over £7 million to varied causes supporting artistic, literacy, literary, musical and theatrical endeavors. The Trust focuses on increasing knowledge and appreciation of matters of historic, artistic, architectural, literary, musical or theatrical interest. It has previously supported institutions including the London Library, Newnham College, the Old Vic, HighTide Festival, Shakespeare for Schools, First Story, the T. S. Eliot International Summer School, and various arts organizations. The Trust particularly seeks to foster poetry appreciation among young people and supports organizations devoted to upholding the right to freedom of speech. Grants are more likely to be given for projects which fall within artistic, literacy, literary, musical and theatrical criteria. The Trust does not normally fund activities or projects already completed, capital building projects, personal training and education costs, medical care or resources, or feasibility studies.