Grants available for Greater Geelong community

BENEFIT Geelong have opened a new round of community grants.

The not-for-profit organisation is dedicated to helping support the Greater Geelong community.

It provides donations, grants, connections and advocacy for community groups and projects around the region.

The assistance the organisation provides is made possible through their partnership with Bendigo Bank.

Benefit Geelong run two grants a year and any not-for-profit organisations, clubs or community groups can apply for the grants.

“We’ve already given out over $300,000 to the community which we’re very proud of,” Benefit Geelong committee chair, Chris Hickey said.

“It’s a privilege to be able to support our community that we live in, and we’ve got a wonderful community who are really dedicated to the Geelong region.

“We call for grants up to $15,000 for any not-for-profit organisations that could do with support in activities that are seen to give benefit to strengthen their capital community or welfare, education, health and cultural initiatives around the community.”

Mr Hickey said Benefit Geelong was looking forward to seeing what the need was in the region.

“We’re keen to help organisations who are looking for a hand up to get some support to fund activities and initiatives that they’re looking to roll out.

“We’re not ruling anything in or out, we’re certainly open to all sorts of things, we usually get a wide array of community submissions.”

Previously, Benefit Geelong has sponsored indigenous surfing programs, bike education, gardening groups, play groups and more.

To apply, groups need to show the clear benefits for strengthening the activity or initiative they are undertaking.

Grant applications are open now and will close on April 8.

For more information and to apply, head to benefitgeelong.com.au