Up to $200,000 in grant funds will be available soon, to assist local non-profit groups and organisations provide much-needed COVID support for the Canterbury-Bankstown community.

Mayor Khal Asfour moved a number of Mayoral Minutes, during this month’s Council Meeting, providing several measures to support the community through the prolonged lockdown.

“From way back in March last year when I introduced my 18-point plan until today, I am proud to say we have provided crucial support to our vulnerable ratepayers, businesses, non-for-profit organisations and the many sporting associations,” Mayor Asfour said.

“This crisis has taken its toll in many ways, and if we can lighten the load, no matter how small, then we have made somebody’s life just that little better.

“I am proud to be able to provide up to $200,000 in financial assistance to non-profit community groups. It is through these grass roots organisations we identify and reach those in real hardship.”

From 1 September, eligible non-profit organisation can apply for grants of $500-$10,000 to assist in:

• Providing crisis and responsive emergency relief services to people currently experiencing hardship and at risk of becoming entrenched in disadvantage due to the crisis;
• Assist those that are most at risk of serious infection such as immune compromised, older people, diagnosed chronic medical conditions, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples;
• Support families struggling with wellbeing and educating in disadvantaged home environments; and
• Enabling community organisations to continue to deliver their services via alternative delivery models.

Council has also reactivated rate relief up to March 2022 for residential and business ratepayers, who receive support under the Commonwealth COVID-19 Disaster Payment, NSW COVID-19 Micro-Business Grant or the NSW JobSaver Payment.

For more information on COVID support and financial assistance, visit cb.city/covid