This year Council is increasing support for the most vulnerable members of our community by boosting the Community Grants program by an additional $500,000, bringing the total to $3.5 million.
This additional funding in the Budget 2025/26 will increase the capacity of local organisations to provide vital services. This includes emergency relief and financial counselling, where and when it's needed most.
Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said this investment reflects Council's commitment to standing alongside our community and responding to the challenges many are facing right now.
"With rising household costs putting pressure on families, we're increasing support for the services and organisations that make a real difference to help local people put food on the table or manage their budgets.
One example is the Transit program in Narre Warren, which has received $400,000 over two years to expand their ability to provide food relief to residents in need and connect them other local support services. Currently, they provide fresh groceries or a nutritious three-course sit-down meal to more than 1,600 families each week.
The grant is the largest ever awarded by the City of Casey and will be used to establish a Support and Skills Hub at their existing facility to expand access to much needed services.
Council is also continuing its partnership with the Community Information and Support Cranbourne and Casey North Community Information and Support Service, providing $200,000 per year for two years for a new outreach service. This service will bring financial counselling and emergency support directly to our new communities.
"These services are a lifeline for some members of our community and our continued investment will enable more community members to access them." Cr Koomen added.
From services like food relief and financial advice for the most vulnerable members of our community, to services that connect our most isolated, your rates are working to make Casey a place that is connected, innovative and resilient.
