The City of Melbourne will provide $200,000 in grants for organisations that support vulnerable people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp is inviting eligible not-for-profit and community groups to apply for Coronavirus Response Community Grants to help fund projects that support vulnerable people and strengthen community connections.
“As a city that cares, we need to look after the people in our community who are most vulnerable to the challenges created by COVID-19 – such as people who already face financial hardship, health challenges, or even loneliness,” the Lord Mayor said.
“These grants will help groups that are working with some of the most vulnerable members of our community to reach out and provide further support during this challenging time.
“That could be by providing food, delivering essentials such as medicines, running a new online class, or helping people access video sharing to stay in touch with loved ones.”
People City portfolio Chair Cr Beverley Pinder called for applications for projects to help residents and communities that have been affected by COVID-19 maintain good mental health and quality of life, in spite of the challenging times.
“We know that COVID-19 has created real hardship in many communities, but particularly so for people who already face disadvantage,” Cr Pinder said.
“We really value the work that community and not-for-profit groups are doing to support people in this difficult time.
“These grants are one way that we can support community and not-for-profit groups to continue their fantastic work, as well as supporting them to take on new initiatives in response to COVID-19.”
Community and not-for-profit groups that are based in or are providing services to residents of the City of Melbourne can apply for grants of up to $5000.
Applications are now open at melbourne.smartygrants.com.au
The community grants are in addition to the City of Melbourne’s $5 million in financial support for small to medium sized businesses, and $2 million in arts grants in response to COVID-19.
