Community groups hoping to complete works at their facilities but in need of a financial boost have been urged to apply for the latest round of Stronger Communities Program funding.
Macquarie MP Susan Templeman said that in the coming round $150,000 would be available for up to 20 capital projects in the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains.
Applications must be submitted via Ms Templeman's office by Monday, February 22.
Ms Templeman said she was pleased that one key criteria had changed in the new round.
"This time community groups will not be required to match the funding they are applying for," she said.
"We have been raising the issue that groups have been unable to undertake normal fundraising activities throughout 2020 due to COVID, and it appears that this message has got through to the government.
"This will allow groups to complete much-needed projects that will benefit the community without the pressure of finding extra funding in what has been an extraordinarily difficult 12 months, with fundraising options in 2021 looking pretty limited."
The 1st Glossodia Scout Group was among the successful applicants last year.
The group received $7000 funding to help put in place a new hot water system and roof at its Lamrock Avenue premises.
"The Glossodia Scout Hall didn't have a hot water system, which obviously made it really inconvenient for those using the building for a variety of Scout activities," Ms Templeman said. "It also needed some repairs to the awning and roof.
"The Scouts put forward an application for half of the funds required to make the improvements, and I was really happy to recommend the grant be approved.
"Scouts are a valued group in our local community, and these works have improved the facilities for volunteers and families using the hall."
For more details on Stronger Communities eligibility and how to apply, visit business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/stronger-communities-programme, or email susan.templeman.mp@aph.gov.au.
