MEDIA RELEASE

Sutherland Shire Council has recognised some of the many local not-for-profit organisations who deliver immeasurable support across a broad cross section of community service areas through its 2022/2023 Community Grants and Subsidies Program.

The program, which has been successfully operating for a number of years, provides financial assistance through grants of up to $20,000 to fund projects, activities and initiatives that support and empower local residents.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce celebrated the return of the program and congratulated the recipients on their efforts to support the wellbeing of many individuals and families across the area.

“I’m very proud to congratulate the recipients of this year’s Community Grants and Subsidies Program, which continues to provide financial assistance towards several important programs in Sutherland Shire,” Mayor Pesce said.

“I’ve been fortunate to present grant certificates to many worthy recipients of this program over a number of years, and on each occasion, I become more inspired by the amazing work that many local champions carry out across our community.

“Some of the recipients have been well established locally for years, while others have grown in recent times as additional needs for our community have been identified. No matter their tenure, their organisational purpose aligns with Council’s value of supporting a creative, caring and healthy community that celebrates culture and diversity.”

For the 2022/2023 program, Council received over 65 applications requesting support for a diverse range of projects. Close to $500,000 in grant funding has been awarded to 39 local organisations to help deliver valuable services, programs, events, and support for the Sutherland Shire community in diverse ways.

Some of the specialist services represented by this group of recipients include aged and disability care, mental health services, social, family and carer support, youth engagement, transport services, recreational activities, arts and cultural programs, music and more.

“Our vision is that funding support from this program will help to get projects off the ground, so that community organisations can continue delivering on their commitments to their members and contribute to a more connected, supportive, caring, inclusive and engaged community going forward,” Mayor Pesce said.

“A little financial boost can go a long way for not-for-profit organisations who are seeking financial assistance, and we hope that with grants of up to $20,000 being awarded, this program will provide a very welcome boost to these valued local organisations.”

Image: Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce with 2019 grant recipients.