Deserving grants

THE quiet achievers in the community were recognised for their hard work when local MP Anthony Byrne presented a number of volunteer grants.
A total of 25 organisations from the Holt area received grants from local MP Anthony Byrne, as a token of recognition and appreciation of their volunteering.
Grants ranged between $1000 and $5000 and were expected to help volunteers meet the rising costs in running a not-for-profit organisation as well as buying equipment.
Volunteers may also use these grants to better serve those who are marginalised, disadvantaged or facing hardship in their community.
My Byrne said the Labor Government wished to recognise the contribution of local volunteers.
“The Rudd Labor Government recognises the invaluable contribution volunteers make to Australian society in so many ways,” he said.
“They are the life-blood of our communities, but the increasing financial strains they are under makes it difficult for them to deliver the important services they provide to our community every day.”
He said the grants would ’help community organisations’ to purchase much-needed equipment or act as a contribution towards training courses, background checks and transport costs of volunteers with disability who are unable to drive.
More information is available on the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website at www.fahcsia.gov.au or by calling 1800 183 374.

The 25 organisations that received the grants and the money they received are:
1. Casey Comets Football Club $5000
2. Angel Light Link $2138
3. Narre Warren Scouts $4614
4. Salvation Army Cranbourne $3999
5. Boys Brigade Victoria $3750
6. Association of Hazaras in Victoria $4800
7. SES Narre Warren $4060
8. Sri Lankan Elders Welfare Association $2075
9. Oz Assist Inc $2874
10. Neighbourhood Watch Casey $1517
11. Narre Warren North Urban Fire Brigade $1280
12. Mission Australia (Doveton) $1968
13. Hampton Park Turkish Seniors Group $5000
14. Endeavour Sporting Club $5000
15. Cranbourne U3A Inc $1800
16. Cranbourne North Netball Club $3850
17. Cranbourne Lions Choir $1259
18. Cranbourne Italian Senior Citizens Club $5000
19. Cranbourne Hampton Park Greek Senior Citizens Club $5000
20. Cranbourne Football and Netball Club $3900
21. Cranbourne Arthritis Support Group $2000
22. Corona Italian Seniors Club of Casey $1710
23. Casey City Power Netball Club $2020
24. Carrum Downs Men’s Shed $4966
25. Afghan Australia Women’s and Youth Association $3300