Foundation 61 supported with Australia Post grant

FOUNDATION 61 is one of 72 not-for-profit community groups supporting mental health to receive a grant from Australia Post this year.

The not-for-profit rehabilitation facility in Mount Duneed will use $2,000 in funding from Australia Post’s Community Grants program to expand its Inspire Community Group, which aims to improve the mental health of local women who may be socially isolated.

These women may be unemployed, single mothers, carers, those recovering from addiction or isolated elders.

The Foundation 61 program offers weekly art therapy sessions, monthly coffee connect meetings, annual womens retreat and Christmas celebration activities.

The grant will fund an art therapist, hall hire, materials, retreat subsidies, refreshments and gifts.

Through the connections made and issues addressed during the therapy and activities, attendees will gain improved mental health, confidence and social/life skills.

“Being connected is vitally important for our mental and physical wellbeing and can be a protective factor against anxiety and depression,” Foundation 61’s Neil Loxston said.

“Foundation 61 through its Inspire Community Group has created safe spaces for women to find a place for community, connection, and conversation.”

The 20 Victorian grant recipients will each receive funding of up to $10,000.

Australia Post executive general manager of community sustainability and stakeholder engagement Tanny Mangos said it was pleasing to see such a wide range of categories represented in this year’s grant recipients, which demonstrated the need for community support.

“Australia Post’s Community Grants program has been put in place to empower organisations to continue their impactful work and make a positive difference in the lives of countless Australians.”

Since 2013, more than 800 projects have been awarded a Community Grant from Australia Post.

For the full list of this year’s recipients, head to auspost.com.au/grants