Growing, preparing, sharing, and of course eating food is one of the best ways to bring people together.
Wollongong City Council is embracing the importance of food by offering small grants to community members and groups who have a great foodie idea that would make a positive impact in their local area.
Council’s Connecting Neighbours Grants program is open again for the 9th Round. Previous grants were awarded to a variety of different projects such as a picnic day at Rhododendron Gardens, an afternoon tea street party in Coniston, a walking school bus in Port Kembla, and a gardening day at Berkeley.
This round there’s a total of $10,000 available and now is the time to get your application in.
Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said that residents have until 5pm Monday 28 August 2023 to apply.
“This year we’ve themed our Connecting Neighbours Grants around the universal love of sharing food. What we’re looking for are creative ideas that connect people in the community to each other,” Mr Doyle said.
“This could look like a BBQ to welcome the new neighbours, a street or neighbourhood picnic, a cooking workshop at a community centre or something else entirely.
“Council is giving up to $250 for individual community members, or $1,000 for projects that are backed by a supporting organisation. I encourage residents to discuss ideas with your neighbours, friends or local community organisations and bring a proposal to Council so we can help you get started.”
To apply for this program, you must live or be based in the Wollongong Local Government Area and either:
- Be an individual with at least two other friends or neighbours who support your idea (for grants up to $250)
- Or have a local organisation willing to support your project (for grants over $250 and up to $1000)
