Council’s COVID-19 community grants assist local organisations

Scenic Rim community organisations suffering the ongoing effects of COVID-19 restrictions have received a welcome boost, sharing in a total of more than $16,600 in Council grants.

Funding of between $500 and $1500 for 12 local organisations, which represent vital threads in the fabric of Scenic Rim communities, was formally endorsed at Council’s meeting today.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the grants, provided through the COVID-19 Community Stimulus Fund as part of the Scenic Rim Economic Stimulus Package 3, were aimed at supporting grassroots groups experiencing financial loss or hardship due to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.

“Many community events and activities, which help to raise vital funds for these volunteer organisations, were cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns,” he said.

“Council is well aware that many groups have struggled through COVID-19, as they have been unable to offset their operational expenses.

This funding round follows the first round of COVID-19 community grants announced late last year.

Round 1 of the COVID Community Grants Program provided $24,000 for 17 groups to help meet operating costs, including insurance and utilities

“Both funding rounds represent a significant investment by Council in community organisations which enhance the quality of life for Scenic Rim residents,” Cr Christensen said.

“These are groups which, in normal circumstances, bring people together, fostering a sense of community connection and contributing to individual health and wellbeing.

“Most of the COVID-19 Community Grant applications have been fully funded to the upper limit, addressing the needs of community groups that have been impacted by the pandemic.”

The organisations and their needs which have been funded under Round two are as follows: