The City is again offering grants of up to $2,000 to help community groups host festive meal events or provide food relief hampers for distribution during the December Christmas and New Year period.
The Community Festive Season Meals Grants supports food security, social inclusion, and stronger local community connections, especially for residents who may be experiencing financial hardship, social isolation, or exclusion.
The grants are aimed at supporting a range of small, local activities across Greater Bendigo between Monday December 1 and Wednesday December 31, 2025.
Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said that community meal events held at Christmas and throughout the holiday season are consistently well attended and provide connection and companionship to those experiencing disadvantage or social isolation at this time of year.
"In Greater Bendigo, we're fortunate to have wonderful community groups that support residents who may not have others to celebrate with during the festive season," Cr Metcalf said.
"This support would not be possible without the commitment of volunteers and local businesses.
"This year, we have seen how the cost of living is affecting many people and we hope these grants will help bridge a gap at a time when many other supports are unavailable."
Applications are now open and will close at 3pm Wednesday September 24, 2025.
