Council will fund almost $2.5 million in community grants to groups and organisations within Monash in 2020/21.
Monash Council has one of the largest community grants programs in Victoria and this year 240 applications were considered.
The Grants Program has taken into account the current situation with COVID-19 and the inability of some programs and groups to operate. Funding for groups and events will be allocated when, and if, they are able to resume providing programs and services.
Council will provide cash and in-kind funding (including use of hall or printing) to 199 organisations and services who met the funding criteria including:
- Arts and Cultural Projects – $90,102.83
- Community Events – $49,883.45
- Major Festivals – $23,600
- Specialist Services – $667,442.03
- Community Strengthening – $357,684.29
- Neighbourhood Houses – $475,366.81
- Positive Ageing – $745,823.71
- Active Monash – $1,855
Mayor Stuart James said community groups and services had been seriously impacted through the COVID-19 pandemic due to the strict but necessary social distancing measures needed to slow the spread of the virus.
“Now, more than ever we are proud to be able to support our community groups who play a huge role in the lives of many people,” Cr James said.
“Our grants program is one of the most generous in the state and we want to see our groups get back to a ‘new normal’, though we must all stay vigilant and practise the hygiene and social distancing requirements as outlined by the State Government.
“It’s been a tough time and we know our groups can’t wait to get back together in person for activities and to deliver services. We recognise too that it’s possible some groups may choose not to accept their funding due to the restrictions making it too difficult to run their event or program.”
Council also endorsed setting aside $135,000 of the existing grants funds for the establishment of a to assist groups to reconnect with their members in innovative or alternative ways while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.
Under this program applicants can apply for up to $5000 for a once-off grant. The grants from 1 July 2020 until the allocation has been exhausted.
