By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The Wellbeing and Support Grants Program applications which offers crucial funding to support the establishment of new organisations, projects, and services aimed at enhancing the health and wellbeing of Cardinia Shire residents are now open.
The program dedicates in encouraging community engagement, fostering volunteerism, and ensuring the sustainability of local initiatives.
There are three distinct funding categories available, ranging from $1000 to $5000.
These are some of the community projects funded for 2024-2025 by the Cardinia Shire Council.
The program has awarded ‘Seeding Grants’ of up to $5000 to 18 organisations, including local groups such as the Cockatoo and District Senior Citizens, the Cockatoo History and Heritage Group, and the Puffing Billy Toy Library.
The ‘Volunteer Support Grants’ of up to $3000 have been awarded to four organisations to recognise their much-needed contributions to fostering volunteerism within the community.
The ‘Small Change Grants’ providing up to $1000 each, have been distributed to over 40 organisations, including local groups, the Emerald Village Association Inc. which received funding for a new laptop, and new tables for the Emerald Arts Society Hall.
Other projects supported include IT upgrades for the Gembrook RSL Sub-Branch, Christmas decorations for the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association, the Puffing Billy Toy Library’s Community Engagement Project, and heating for the outdoor veranda area at Emerald RSL Sub-Branch.
The funding is not available for:
• Core services of government entities
• Initiatives from individuals
• Private, profit-making organisation
• Political organisation
• Capital works or beautification projects
• Maintenance of facilities
• Operating costs or existing salaries
To qualify for the program, applicants must be, not-for-profit, based in or serving residents of Cardinia Shire, and a community asset committee or incorporated organisation.
Community groups with outstanding projects are ineligible for further funding.
For more information and to apply, visit the Cardinia Shire Council website.
Applications for the 2025 and 2026 grant round will open in early 2025.
