Community groups in the Blue Mountains are invited to apply for grants of up to $5000 to support outstanding local projects, with $12,000 in funding now available for projects that help to strengthen the local community.
Applications open on August 13 for the next Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Small Grants for Rural Communities (SGRC) program, which supports projects that help to build the capacity of regional and remote communities in a sustainable way.
Supported by Scenic World’s philanthropic program Scenic World Shared, FRRR has distributed more than $80 million in grants to thousands of community groups across Australia. As a proud supporter, Scenic World commits $24,000 to the SGRC program annually to support Blue Mountains community groups who are committed to championing change at a local level.
Ranging from community hall repairs to cultural events and art projects, local projects are at the heart of the small grants program, which has had a profound impact on the Blue Mountains community over the past 12 months.
With funding provided by Scenic World, the program has helped to boost tourism to the region for the Mount Victoria Great Train Weekend and funded a nutritional program for local parents with young children.
The SGRC program has also supported the work of the Blue Mountains Artists’ Network and provided a $5000 grant for an aerosol art project at the Katoomba Youth Centre.
Mountains Youth Services general manager Damian Cooper said the SGRC program helped to help bridge the gap in funding for not-for-profit groups who are committed to driving change in the community.
“We were thrilled to receive funding through the SGRC program as we face a big challenge when it comes to funding capital works. As a result, we finally have the opportunity to restore a long-neglected program arm of our youth centre,” he said.
“Thanks to the support of FRRR and Scenic World, we have been successful in rebuilding a number of aerosol art painting walls in the secure backyard of the youth centre, giving young people a safe and secure place to paint, learn new skills, socialise and access advice and support from youth centre staff.”
Scenic World managing director Anthea Hammon said the SGRC program was well aligned with Scenic World’s commitment to give back to the Blue Mountains in a way that has a lasting impact for future generations.
“We are proud to be part of such a vibrant and diverse community and it’s a great privilege to play a leading role in supporting the incredible work of local champions who are committed to making a difference close to home,” she said.
“It is also an honour to work alongside FRRR as a valued partner helping to strengthen communities right across Australia.”
Submissions for Round 34 of the Small Grants for Rural Communities program open on August 13, closing on September 26. Not-for-profit community groups are welcome to apply to support local projects that benefit the Blue Mountains community.
For more information including resources on how to apply, visit the grants page of the FRRR website. For more on the Scenic World Shared program visit www.scenicworldshared.com.au.
