Pandemic recovery is the focus of Council's 2020/21 annual community grants program, which has a new vision to support local groups and clubs continue their vital role in bringing people living in the City of Whittlesea together.
Administrator Lydia Wilson said Council had reviewed the existing 10 community grants offered each year and refocused activities towards community relief and recovery from COVID-19 impacts.
"The impacts of COVID-19 and social distancing measures has significantly impacted our not-for-profit groups' ability to deliver new projects, activities and events that are accessible to the wider community," she said.
"Changes to our current grant programs were required to ensure they remain responsive to community needs during the relief and recovery phases of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond."
Council has simplified its current program by developing four new grants to be accessed by not-for-profit groups operating in the City of Whittlesea:
- Resourcing grant program for the purchase of portable equipment and to pay for essential operating costs.
- Venue hire subsidy for free access to local venues.
- Reactivation grants to engage existing members in new online activities or re-establish previous activities if restrictions allow.
- Reconnection grants to develop and deliver events and activities that are open to the wider community.
Council has also increased its investment in the community grants program by almost $20,000 - from $514,000 (2019/20) to $533,421.
"Our new vision for community grants and increased investment is part of Council's holistic approach to providing financial support where it is most needed and in areas that will help our community recover from this disruptive pandemic," Ms Wilson said.
Existing community grants that will continue in 2020/21 include Economic Development Grants, Environmental Works Grants, Senior Citizens' Club Grants and Female Inclusion in Sport Grants.
Opening dates for grant applications will be announced soon. Please look out for these announcements on our Facebook page and website.
