Interest in grants returns to pre-pandemic levels

LOCAL philanthropic organisation Geelong Connected Communities (GCC) has reported demand for its grants program has returned to pre-pandemic levels for the first time since 2020.

GCC’s unique 24/7 all-year-round grants program has been operating for the past 11 years and funded grants totalling $2.45 million for almost 900 community projects.

GCC’s model is underpinned by support for smaller not-for-profits and charities that are volunteer based and find it difficult to access sponsorship and grant funding.

GCC chair and Harwood Andrews principal Paul Gray confirmed applications for grants this financial year were at their highest level since most volunteer and community programs shut down during the height of the pandemic.

“We have made 35 grants for the nine months of this financial year,” he said.

“We believe the increased demand for support is driven by cost-of-living pressure and the increase in our regional population.

“Both factors impact the rise in levels of food insecurity and homelessness.”

GCC has been able to deliver this incredible level of support via the generosity of more than 30 local businesses and organisations led by major sponsor Beyond Bank Australia.

“The level of sponsor support has been maintained during this tough business cycle, and we are incredibly appreciative of their continued backing of GCC,” Mr Gray said.

“We have responded to the increased grant application demand by reducing the individual dollar amount granted but not turning any qualified grant applicants away.”

“Our volunteer board has done a great job ensuring we help as many as we can within our funding capacity.”

Any individual or business who would like to assist with support for GCC’s community grant program can contact Pat Murnane on 0419 104 246 or John Fitzgerald on 0412 523 009.

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