Grant offers Victorian services financial support to maintain connections during COVID-19

Grants of between $5,000 and $200,000 are available to support innovative, community-based initiatives that build connection, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and that can be implemented quickly in Victoria, as the state battles a second wave of COVID-19 infection. 

Applications for the Let’s Stay Connected Fund opened last week, with funding available to community organisations, local government bodies, incorporated not-for-profits and sector/ industry groups with local ideas and initiatives which support communities to stay connected during the coronavirus pandemic.

The $1.3 million fund could potentially help community groups continue to operate by adapting the way they deliver programs or events, including through online forums.

Other possibilities include support for communities to improve their digital skills and access online communication channels, or new ways for people to continue volunteering within their communities while maintaining physical distancing requirements.

The fund has been developed in response to advice from the Victorian Government’s Regional and Metropolitan Partnerships highlighting the link between social connection and community wellbeing, and complements existing measures including the Victoria Together online portal.

Victoria Together offers a range of resources, including children’s activities, live streaming from the Melbourne Zoo, exercise advice and recipes.

Applications for the Let’s Stay Connected Fund are open until 31 August, with applicants encouraged to apply as early as possible via the website, here.