The first call for grant applications from the Chief Minister’s Charitable Fund (CMCF) has been invited.
ACT charities and community organisations can apply for up to $20,000 from the $400,000 fund, which is managed by Hands Across Canberra, an independent philanthropic community foundation, working with more than 250 local community organisations.
Chair of Hands Across Canberra, Diane Kargas (pictured) said the new fund will be a catalyst for positive impacts in the community, now and for future generations, by promoting a culture of giving, building partnerships, cooperating and collaborating, raising awareness of needs and supporting diverse charitable organisations.
Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said Canberra was Australia’s most inclusive city, a place where people strove to ensure everyone had the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
“There are many local charities and community organisations that are doing great work in our community,” Mr Barr said.
“Through the Government’s investment, we are kick starting a long-term commitment to supporting Canberra’s most vulnerable people as our city continues to grow.”
He said the CMCF was established last year with $5 million as seed funding to kick-start a long-term commitment to local charities and the community sector.
He said the 2019 priorities for the fund include improving wellbeing, mental health and employment outcomes for a range of beneficiaries; supporting people and families impacted by incarceration; addressing homelessness; and activating services in outer suburban areas.
Mr Barr said the priorities were based on identified areas of greatest community need through research and consultation with the community sector and Government Agencies.
Interested organisations can apply through the Hands Across Canberra online application process at handsacrosscanberra.org.au.
Applications close on 6 May with charities considering applying for grants advised to register with Hands Across Canberra and attend one of free workshops to be held on 11 and 12 April.
