Social welfare organisations, education providers, emergency services and sporting groups across Kingston are among those sharing in over $1.5 million to continue their great work, thanks to Council's Annual Community Grants Program.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said Council was delighted to continue to support local not-for-profit groups to deliver a wide range of services, programs, and special events for the community.
"The number and diversity of our community groups and clubs is one of the main reasons Kingston is such a great place to live, work and play and we are very proud to be able to support their ongoing efforts," Cr Staikos said.
"We continue to live in challenging times and these organisations provide invaluable support networks, social engagement opportunities and a real sense of belonging for so many across our community."
A total of 196 Community Grants have been allocated this year.
Among those most represented were pre-schools and other early learning groups, who provide services to our youngest residents.
"Access to quality learning, social stimulation and support for children is just so vital for their development and for families, and to be able to assist our local services through these grants is particularly important," Cr Staikos said.
Council has also provided funding to multicultural and seniors organisations to enable these groups to meet for regular social, educational, and cultural activities which help to break down social isolation and build community connections.
Kingston's Community Grants Program is split into two main categories:
Partnership Grants
Partnership Grants provide secure and longer term (three years) funding support to community centres, neighbourhood houses, emergency services, social welfare organisations and seniors and multicultural groups to address organisational operational requirements and includes festivals and events components.
Annual Grants
Annual Grants are for multiple neighbourhood area groups and organisations and designed to provide funding for one-off activities that have municipal significance. The maximum funding available for an Annual Grant is $10,000 per application.
The broader funding categories also include Individual Development Grants, Student Achievement Grants, Arts Grants, and Children's Week Grants.
