A program that aims to teach job seekers barbering and deliver free haircuts, is one of five community initiatives to share in more than $60,000 of grant funding.
Fresh Start Academy has received a $25,000 grant through Council’s Community Partnerships Grant to help deliver the Fresh Start Pop Up Barbers program.
In its first year, the program aims to engage with six to 10 jobseekers on a six-month basis to teach them barbering.
Once trained, they will provide free haircuts via pop up barber shops, which are planned to at different locations four times a month.
It is hoped that the free haircut program will engage with men aged 15 to 26 years, providing a space for discussion and support.
The Community Partnerships Grant assists community groups and organisations with the delivery of events, activities and programs that enhance the lives of residents, celebrate important community occasions, and provide opportunities to develop social cohesion and connection in the Cairns region.
Successful applicants for Community Partnerships Grant (Round 5) are:
- Cairns African Association Inc: $11,400 for the Cairns African Festival 2023
- Cairns Indian Association Inc: $6,200 for the Holi – Festival of Colour
- Cairns Thai Community Association Inc: $16,000 for the Songkran Festival 2023
- Fresh Start Academy: $25,000 for the Fresh Start Pop Up Barbers
- Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre Inc: $2,000 for the MCNC Community Fun Day.
(Note: All grants are ex-GST)
Support for Choral Society
Council will also provide up to $35,000 in-kind support to the Cairns Choral Society next year.
The Choral Society has successfully delivered shows for more than four decades, but last year was forced to cancel its musical performance due to COVID-related illnesses.
This followed a 2021 season which was also impacted by the pandemic.
Council will provide up to $35,000 in-kind support for the Cairns Performing Arts Centre to assist with the delivery of the musical “Spamalot”, the annual gala, and the biennial Senior Eisteddfod.
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