Community impact grants up for grabs

THE Ballarat Foundation is accepting applications for the next round of their Community Impact Grants program.

Charity organisations and not-for-profits can apply to share in a pool of about $150,000, with five $15,000 grants available, and others of up-to $3000 on offer.

Groups can apply in the categories of food security, mental health, young people, and Wendouree-Delacombe.

“The Peter Amor Sports Participation Fund applications, aimed at improving access to sports for disadvantaged or vulnerable young people are also open,” Ballarat Foundation chief executive officer Andrew Eales said. “In addition, the Ballarat Innovation Grant has commenced as an open grant round. One $50,000 grant will be awarded annually.”

Mr Eales said there are changes being made to focus areas this Community Impact Grants round to ensure mental health projects, such as 2023 beneficiary Open Parachute Program, were supported.

“The rate of mental health illness in Ballarat is significantly high, particularly with young adults.

“The Open Parachute Program, operated locally by Hand in Hand Ballarat, received a Community Impact Grant from the Ballarat Foundation and is now operating in five local schools in the Ballarat area.

“The Open Parachute Program seeks to equip young individuals with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to navigate life’s challenges… and provides support and resources to teachers.”

Expressions of interest for the Ballarat Innovation Grant program can be sent to [email protected]. Projects in the areas of food security, mental health, young people (0-18), and housing security are eligible under the innovation stream.

Applications close on April 26. head to ballaratfoundation.org.au for more information.