Community Grants Program applications now open!

Local community and sporting groups can apply for a share in $575,000 of funding assistance with applications now open for City of Parramatta’s 2024 Community Grants program.

The Community Grants program provides support to community organisations, volunteer groups, sporting clubs, social enterprises, creative producers and heritage organisations on an annual and quarterly basis including for events that bring the community together and for projects that help those in need.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Sameer Pandey said it was important for the City to support local community groups.

“This is about supporting organisations that support our community and make it what it is,” Cr Pandey said.

“Local community groups play a vital role for our residents and I am proud to see the City assist where it can.

“The Community Grants program provides significant support to many community organisations, volunteer groups, sporting clubs, social enterprises, creative producers and heritage organisations.

“I encourage local community groups to apply for funding with applications opening today.”

Community group Freedom Solutions, a not-for-profit organisation assisting those living with a disability, received almost $10,000 in funding from the 2023 Community Grants Program.

Freedom Solutions grants coordinator Denise Pastor said the grant allowed the organisation to introduce a brand new project to the community.

“The Ready, Set, Go program was developed by our occupational therapists, that teaches people with a disability to ride a bike, including individual therapeutic cycling lessons to teach people with disabilities to confidently ride their custom-built bike,” Mrs Pastor said.

“The funding has been beneficial to help us to improve the quality of life, independence and social inclusion of people with disabilities in Parramatta City.

“The City of Parramatta goes beyond that of a funder. The staff listen to your queries, provide advice and guidance. This funding is a tremendous way to trial a new program and get support for your organisation.”

Expressions of interest for the Community Grants Program open today and will close on Monday 2 October 2023.