NSW seniors are set to have more opportunities for social activities and learning new skills thanks to a $600,000 NSW Government initiative, the State’s Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison said today.
The Connecting Seniors grant program will fund projects aimed at engaging older people and keeping them engaged with their communities, the Minister said.
“These grants support activities which can provide a social lifeline for seniors, especially those who live alone.”
“Our population is growing older and we want to make sure our seniors age well by providing opportunities for them to socialise while enjoying engaging experiences,” she said.
The grant program, which opens today, is divided into three categories.
Not-for-profit community organisations can apply for:
- Category 1: Creation grants for new projects, with $20,000 awarded to five innovative projects with an overall value of $100,000.
- Category 2: Enhancement and/or expansion grants for existing projects, with $30,000 each for ten different organisations with an overall value of $300,000.
Local councils are only able to apply for:
- Category 3: Local council grants for local council projects, with $40,000 each for five different councils with an overall value of $200,000.
The Connecting Seniors grant program builds on previous grants, which have been proven to reduce social isolation for thousands of seniors in NSW, said Minister Harrison.
“Some grant-funded initiatives include a family history research project, dancing lessons, art classes and wellness workshops.”
“I am looking forward to seeing what fantastic ideas evolve from the Connecting Seniors grant program and I encourage eligible organisations to apply,” she said.
Grant applications will close on 25 October. Successful projects will commence in early 2024.
For more information go to: www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program.
