Golden Plains Shire Council has launched a new grant program to help the community respond to the changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, following the easing of restrictions for events late last year.
The COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants program is designed to fund activities that will assist community groups adapt and recover from these changes, with a total funding pool of $35,000 and up to $4,000 available per application. Grants are available in two categories:
Operating in COVID Environment Grant
This grant will assist community organisations and groups to build their capacity to operate in a COVID-safe environment, and can go towards expenses that help community groups deliver their existing and new services or programs in line with COVID-19 restrictions. Grants of up to $1,000 are available in this category.
Community Engage, Connect and Recover Initiatives
Funding of up to $4,000 is available in this category to support community organisations deliver new or existing projects, programs and activities that will help Golden Plains Shire communities to recover from COVID-19.
All activities must comply with the latest health and Victorian Government restrictions.
Round One of the program is now open, and applications will close on 1 February 2021 or until all funds are allocated. All applications must be submitted online at goldenplains.smartygrants.com.au. Guidelines and details on how to apply for the COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants can be found at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/grants. Community groups seeking more information on the program are encouraged to contact Council’s Community Services Admin Support Officer on (03) 5220 7109 or email [email protected].
The COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants program is part of Council’s participation in the Community Activation and Social Isolation Initiative (CASI) program, and is supported by the Victorian Government. This new grant program is in addition to Council’s Community Strengthening Grants program, and forms the latest component of Council’s COVID-19 response, which has included; targeted rate relief under the COVID-19 Financial Support Policy; Creative Communities Quick Response Professional Development Grants for the Shire’s creative sector; and various business support measures including waiving some permit fees.
Mayor Cr Helena Kirby encouraged community groups to take advantage of the new grant program.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a lot of change in how individuals, community groups, Governments and even Councils can operate. Council’s new COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants program is the latest part of our response to these changed circumstances.
“The grants will help eligible organisations activate community spaces and deliver new or improved programs, services and events, all in a COVID-safe manner. Golden Plains Shire is home to some fantastic community groups, and I hope to see many take up this opportunity from Council to help them get back to what they love to do.”