Hume council has made $450,000 in grants available to community groups and residents to help them adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and continue building social connections.
Councillors last week approved a one-off COVID-19 community grants category, which will form part of its annual community grants program.
The COVID-19 grants are able in four categories: arts activation, community connections and partnerships, community adaptation and partnerships, and technology access and support.
Charitable organisations and neighbourhood houses can apply for up to $20,000 under the community adaptation and partnerships category for projects addressing social isolation and service delivery during the coronavirus crisis.
Community groups can apply for up to $2000 under the community adaptation and partnerships category to help them adapt to social distancing requirements and to help build resilience in the community.
The council has also made up to $1000 available for residents who do not have access to adequate technology at home to enable them to access virtual education or undertake retraining to find employment.
Artists can apply for up to $3000 to develop new works.
Cr Naim Kurt said there had never been a more important time for council to support community groups to provide activities, programs and services.
“Over the last few weeks, I have been inundated with community requests for support as a result of the restrictions placed on movement due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
“We are approving a new one-off COVID-19 community grant program which will provide an opportunity for individuals and groups across Hume to adjust to the physical distancing requirements whilst continuing to build social connections and participation throughout the community.
“These are very difficult times, but the community should be assured…that we are here with them and we want to see everyone make it through this situation in one piece.”
To apply for a COVID-19 community grant, visit: hume.vic.gov.au/humetogether
