South East Water’s 2023 Community Grants program is now open, with grants of up to $10,000 available to help southeast Melbourne groups make community projects possible.
Now in its fourth year, the program has so far granted over $220,000 to 50 community groups across South East Water’s service region.
In 2022, the grants program supported 16 community groups with a range of community initiatives, from rescue equipment for Pakenham SES to water safety sessions for Indigenous children at Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place.
South East Water General Manager Service Delivery, Simon Willis, said the organisation was proud to run its Community Grants program again in 2023.
“If your community group is within our service region and needs support for a project, I encourage you to apply now for a grant. Our grants program also aims to support projects for community groups that have been impacted by our services, such as a sewer spill, reduced water quality or water service interruption,” Mr. Willis said.
Bluearth, a not-for-profit organisation that helps primary school students to stay active, was one of 2023’s successful recipients, receiving a $10,000 grant. The organisation’s ‘Active Schools’ program improves students’ levels of physical activity and mental health through movement and mindfulness workshops led by a Bluearth-certified Coach.
Bluearth Coach, Ryan Stone, said, “Our Active Schools program plays a significant role in promoting healthier, happier, more cohesive school communities. We’re very grateful to have received this grant that enabled us to support so many students’ physical, social and mental wellbeing.”
“Bluearth is just one of the many community groups in our service region who is working hard to support the community. We want to help groups like this continue their great work,” Mr Willis said.
The grant funding helped deliver the program to four primary schools across Melbourne’s south east, including Dandenong West Primary School, South Melbourne Park Primary School, Clarinda Primary School in Oakleigh and Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Oakleigh.
Eligible community groups across the South East Water service region are encouraged to apply for financial support for projects that make communities better places to live.
This includes projects that:
- Support vulnerable community members
- Make our environment healthier
- Help people be more active and connected
- Help make sure we all know about water and how to use it in the best way possible
Applications close 5pm, 21 April.
To apply for a community grant, please visit southeastwater.com.au/grants.
Feature image: Bluearth ‘Active Schools’ program participants. Image credit: South East Water.
