Source: New South Wales Ministerial News
The City of Greater Bendigo has provided almost $31,000 in grants to support local groups to hold free community festive meal events or provide food relief hampers in December.
Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the festive meal events are aimed at supporting local community connections and inclusion during the festive season.
“The City has provided grants up to $2,000 for organisations to hold events to reflect the significant costs involved in hosting these types of events,” Cr Prince said.
“This year, we’ve been able to fund 18 local groups to deliver meals and hampers in the lead-up to Christmas.
“The grants have made it possible for a range of small, local events to be held across Greater Bendigo rather than one large event taking place in central Bendigo. It also responds to an identified whole-of-municipality gap in food relief at this time of the year.
“The community festive meal events are always well attended and are aimed at helping people meet others in their community and learn more about the work of local groups.
“We are really pleased so many local groups are again hosting events this year as we know that having opportunities to connect with others is very important for community wellbeing, especially at this time of the year.
“The events give local groups a chance to showcase their great work and demonstrate how others can get involved.
“Events like these would not be possible without the support of volunteers. Many of these events are also being supported by the generosity of local businesses, reminding us that it’s important to buy local and support small business wherever we can.
“Anyone can attend these free events taking place in December and I hope lots of people will take up the opportunity to join in.”
There are a range of organisations hosting events in December and interested people should contact the event organiser if they would like to attend for catering purposes.