Health promotion foundation VicHealth has announced $2.5 million to support local organisations to address the immediate health and wellbeing concerns of Victorians.

Many people have lost their jobs, businesses, family members and the ability to make long-lasting memories with friends and families.

Rod Barton encourages all local sporting clubs, community gardens, art organisations, community groups and youth services apply for funding to support our community.

Community organisations such as food banks, community gardens, theatre groups and more, create connections, support the vulnerable and are a source of joy.

In recognition that Victorians have been hit the hardest by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, VicHealth’s Reimagining Health grants will provide amounts of $3K, $10K or $50K for local organisations whose ideas will support their communities to get active, get reconnected and to access health, affordable food.

“This grant is a fantastic opportunity for the local community to help people living in and around eastern metropolitan get through this pandemic and back on to their feet” stated Rod Barton.

VicHealth CEO Dr Sandro Demaio calls organisations “to act fast and apply for $2.5million in grants…we’ve made it easier to apply, with quicker turnarounds to notification.” As such, organisations who apply as soon as the grants opened on Wednesday 16th September community organisations could learn the outcome of their application within weeks!

The grant is open to new and existing ideas which will support Victorians experiencing disadvantage or young people (aged 0-25 years).

To learn more about the Reimagining Health grants, head over to: https://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/funding/reimagining-health-grants

If you or someone you know are in need of urgent support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or use their crisis support chat.

For additional support, on how to stay safe and well during the pandemic or for income support head over to the Victorian government website for more information.

Quotes Attributable to Rod Barton MP
“This is a fantastic opportunity for the local community to help people living in and around eastern metropolitan get through this pandemic and back on to their feet”

“I encourage all local sporting clubs, community gardens, art organisations, community groups and youth service in the area to apply for funding to support our community”