The Hills Shire Council’s Community Grants Program provides funding each year for innovative community projects and events that deliver sustainable and positive outcomes in accordance with Council’s sustainable communities plan.
“Over the years there have been some outstanding projects and organisations that have received Council grants and gone on to provide outstanding services to our community,” Mayor Byrne said.
Community grants allow Council to support local organisations and groups in the development of sustainable programs and events rather than one off ventures.
“The Hills Shire Council sees the Community Grants Program as an opportunity to seed and watch grow new projects that have the capacity to progress beyond the funding period and become self-sufficient,” Mayor Byrne said.
“Council places a strong emphasis on the ability of grant recipients to create sustainable projects and events. This focus ensures that great and lasting resources are created for the benefit of the wider Hills community.”
Grants are currently being offered for projects running between July 2016 and June 2017.
The key objectives of the Community Grants Program are:
- to encourage community activity, participation and engagement;
- to build community partnerships and increase access to community services; and
- to provide seed funding for local organisations to strengthen the community sector
Grants range in value depending on the category. They include:
General grants (cultural, sports and recreation)
- MAJOR FUNDup to $15,000
Large-scale community projects and events that benefit the broader Hills Shire community and involve a number of community partnerships. Approximately 3 projects in this category are funded each year.
- COMMUNITY FUNDup to $5,000
Community programs and activities that benefit targeted groups and involve a few community partnerships. Approximately 20 projects in this category are funded each year.
- MINOR FUNDup to $1,500
Small-scale community projects and activities, equipment purchases, training and development initiatives. Approximately 40 projects in this category are funded each year.
Three information sessions will held for those interested in applying for a community grant. These sessions will be held on Thursday 21 January 6pm, Friday 22 January 2pm and Monday 1 February at The Hills Shire Council. Anyone wishing to attend should email [email protected] or phone 9843 0516.
Applications for Community Grants close on 12 February. To apply please visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au no late applications will be accepted.
For more information please contact the Community Development Officer-Volunteers on 9843 0516 or[email protected]
