Local not-for-profit and community groups from Elara and Aspire Elara, as well as surrounding communities within Marsden Park, are invited to apply for funding to help create more cohesive, inclusive and engaging community-based programs and local opportunities.
Stockland, the Elara development company, has announced the launch of its annual CARE Grants program for 2020, which will see up to $300,000 worth of individual grants awarded to organisations across the country to support local community-building initiatives.
Stockland's CARE Grants program offers funding support to local groups, clubs and programs who support health, wellbeing, community connection, education, or local environmental initiatives.
Tiernan O'Rourke, Chief Financial Officer at Stockland, said the program allowed the company to invest in local community groups which make "such a huge difference to the social fabric of where we live, work, shop and play, now and into the future."
"Stockland has a long-standing commitment to working with communities through its retail town centres, retirement living villages and residential communities across the country. We focus on building liveable, thriving communities and are proud to support local groups who make a difference in their communities every single day," said Mr O'Rourke.
Grants have been distributed to a range of community groups including environmental groups, animal care and welfare groups, local charities, local primary and high schools seeking additional funds to launch special, community-based programs, as well as a host of local sporting, special interest, seniors and social clubs.
Last year, the AFL NSW / ACT Commission won a Stockland grant that enabled more local children and families to participate in its Marsden Park AFL AusKick Centre free of charge.
Grant applications can be lodged until 5pm Friday, March 20.
Community groups will be selected based on a range of criteria relating to Stockland's key community and environmental focus areas.
Organisations can apply via the Stockland Shopping Centre, Residential Community or Retirement Living Village or by visiting https://www.stockland.com.au/about-stockland/stockland-in-the-community/care-grants.