Grants between $300 and $5,000 are available to support collaborative efforts between community groups and organisations that are based in the Shoalhaven Local Government Area to deliver local projects that support the community.

The Community Grants Program 2021 is offering five types of grants to develop projects, events or activities which respond to an identified area or need and support and enhance the lives of people in the Shoalhaven. Potential applicants must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the program objectives and guidelines available on Council's website. Applications open today, February 2. Check website for individual closing dates.

Community Wellbeing Grant This grant aims to maximise participation, connections, and a sense of belonging for people in the area to community groups and organisations to enable them to design, implement and complete projects that support and enhance the lives of people in the Shoalhaven.

The Youth Inclusion Grant is for youth-led and youth-driven community projects that have a positive youth development focus and give young people the opportunity to develop a range of skills. Grants need to address young people's identified needs in an innovative way and increase young people's connections to the community.

The COVID-19 Social Inclusion Grant is for programs that assist communities to rebuild and reconnect as a result of COVID-19 isolation. COVID has had a significant impact on our community and council recognises the need to provide opportunities for community members to maintain social connections.

The aim of the grant is to fund innovative ideas that help community to keep in touch by utilising phone calls, online platforms or other methods of communication and connection to ensure projects can be delivered during periods of increased restrictions.

Youth Week and Seniors Festival Grants have been combined to provide funding to local community groups and organisations to host events that celebrate and support youth and seniors in the Shoalhaven.

In NSW Youth Week is 16 - 24 April and Seniors Festival is 13 - 24 April which offers a unique opportunity to offer a range of intergenerational and interest-based activities that bring our community together in new ways.

Bushfire Recovery Grants will be available from June. They're available for projects that support social recovery from bushfires for affected local communities to be more resilient for future disasters and improve general wellbeing.

For more information visit Council's Community Grants Program 2021 website.