Latest round of the Community Grants Scheme to support local groups opening Monday!
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They may seem like small amounts, but to a not-for-profit organisation, a Community Grant can make a world of difference.
That’s why Council is encouraging Livingstone Shire community groups and sporting clubs to apply now for a share of funding to deliver innovative projects and programmes.
Opening on 12 February, The Livingstone Shire Council Grants Scheme provides up to $5,000 to eligible not-for-profit community groups to deliver projects that increase their capacity and resilience, and respond to community needs.
Thirteen applicants were successful in securing grants in the most recent round for the 2023/24 financial year.
One of these recipients was a newly established not-for-profit organisation known as Capricorn Coast Toy Library Inc. which offers residents access to a diverse range of toys, games, active play, and educational resources.
President of the Capricorn Coast Toy Library Inc. Jillian Neyland said the Community Grants Scheme was a huge help in providing funding towards the purchase of a laptop and software to get their operations up and running.
“The Community Grants Scheme funding has been critical to our ability to catalogue our toys and enable us to manage our growing membership database and provide a user-friendly digitised borrowing service,” Jillian said.
“Many towns in Australia have toy libraries so we are very proud and excited to bring this service to the Capricorn Coast.
“As well as providing children with an endless source of engaging play items, our toy library is also on a mission to reduce plastic toy waste in the region as we accept second hand donations. Our organisation aims to help families manage tight budgets, by offering low-cost memberships which offer great value for toy borrowing fun.”
Jillian encouraged other local groups to take advantage of the opportunity.
“When applying for the community grant, it’s beneficial to ensure you have a clear plan around what your organisations' mission is, and articulate how this benefits our community,” Jillian explained.
“It’s definitely worthwhile applying as having a financial boost really allows you to spend time doing what you love the most, which is serve the community.”
A Community Grants spokesperson emphasised the pivotal role not-for-profit community groups play in enriching the social fabric of the Shire, recognising their invaluable contributions to the region.
"Our community thrives on the dedicated services of these organisations," the spokesperson said.
Acknowledging the positive impact of previous rounds, the spokesperson cited fantastic community beneficiaries such as Wildlife Rehabilitation HQ, Lions Club of Emu Park, Jack's Paddock, and The Caves Progress and Agricultural Society, which have used their grant funding for numerous improvements.
"These grants have been transformative for our community and sporting groups, putting their grant money towards key equipment such as laptops, disability access ramps, generators, defibrillators and kitchen equipment," the spokesperson said.
All groups are being encouraged to seize the opportunity of the Community Grants Scheme, highlighting their popularity and accessibility.
"Every community and sporting group should consider applying for this funding which not only assists these groups day-to-day, but contributes to the shared vision of fostering a vibrant and inclusive local community,” the spokesperson said.
Round 1 2023/2024 of the Livingstone Shire Council Community Grants Scheme opens on Monday, 12 February 2024, and applications close on 8 March 2024 at midnight.
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and operate within the boundary of Livingstone Shire Council’s Local Government Area, providing programmes or activities that benefit residents, improving overall community well-being, and aligning with the Livingstone Shire Community Plan.
The grants are administered through the SmartyGrants online platform with an Applicant Information Session to be held on Thursday, 15 February from 5pm – 6pm at Level 2, The Hub, James St, Yeppoon.
For more information on this round of community grants, please visit: https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/homepage/155/community-grants