Community grants open again

APPLICATIONS now open for the second round of the Golden Plains Shire’s Community Strengthening grants program.

Following a successful first round of the initiative, grants of up to $10,000 are available again in four categories including healthy active living, creative community, environment and sustainability and community safety.

In the first round of the 2020 program, the Shire awarded a combined $74,284 to 16 different community organisations encompassing sport and recreation clubs, environment groups, history groups, community coordinators and a CFA brigade.

The grants are set to support a variety of programs specifically including initiatives to help protect biodiversity in reserves, improving sporting facilities and helping children with the impacts of family violence trauma.

To be eligible to apply for this second round of funding, organisations must be either not-for-profit or equivalent, an incorporated entity or be auspicated by one, have no outstanding projects or evaluations from previous Shire community grants programs pre-2018/19 and have discussed the project with a municipal officer prior to submission.

Additionally, selected community groups must match the amount of funding sought, either with cash or in-kind contributions such as volunteering on the project.

The Shire’s community partnership officer has encouraged groups to get in contact and discuss their ideas, possible timelines and how their projects can keep communities connected and safe during these difficult times at 5220 7220 or email [email protected].

Applications will close on Monday, 21 September and must be submitted online at goldenplains.smartygrants.com.au.