MidCoast Council has extended the application period for this year's Community Donations round, which was due to close this Saturday 27 March to give local not-for-profit groups extra time, following the devastating flood event that has impacted the region.
"Our community has been hit really hard and while we've now moved into the recovery phase, we don't want anyone to miss out on this funding opportunity because they are focusing on the flood clean-up," explained Paul De Szell, MidCoast Council's Director of Liveable Communities.
"This extension provides more time for applications to be submitted and means those who are concentrating on the flood recovery can make that their priority instead of worrying about the deadline for their application."
Community Donations funding rounds are administered under Council's Community Donations Policy which invites not-for-profit organisations to apply for funding to deliver community-development and capacity-building projects and activities.
Up to $2000 is available for capacity-building projects under the Annual Donations Program, or up to $10,000 over two years for significant projects under the Seed Funding Program. While the focus of the funding is on building capacity of organisations or the set-up of new, innovative programs, sometimes an organisation just needs new equipment to enable them to continue operating effectively. Previous funding rounds have funded a full range of activities from program start-ups to improving accessibility of facilities, to equipment purchases like a PA system.
"Not-for-profit organisations are a really important part of our community, as we see in times like this, and this donations program is one way we can acknowledge and support their tireless work and ongoing contributions," said Paul.
"Each year it's great to see the different ways these funds can help innovative projects get off the ground, or assist in providing much-needed equipment."
Applications for the 2021/22 Donations Program opened on Monday 1 March and will now close on Friday 9 April.
Full details of eligibility and application criteria can be found by visiting www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/community/grants-and-funding where you can also complete the online application form.
Applications will be assessed according to how well they meet the criteria, and provide value for money.
"We want to distribute donations in a fair and equitable way, and to provide support for projects that meet a genuine community need," added Paul.
The 2021/22 Donations Program is part of MidCoast Council's commitment to supporting the region's unique, diverse and culturally rich communities.
