Community grants to honour veterans

RSLs and schools are amongst a range of community organisations eligible to apply for NSW Government funding to deliver projects that improve veteran wellbeing and celebrate their important contributions to society.

Acting Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said the Anzac Community Grants Program provides organisations up to $2,000 to commence, enhance or complete a local community project as part of a commemorative and educational program.

“Feelings of isolation are heightened because of this pandemic so we want to assist projects which enrich the lives of our veterans as well as increase the appreciation of military service personnel,” Mr Lee said.

“Groups are also encouraged to apply for grants for public commemorative events including virtual services, projects which either enhance local historical research and education or preserve and display war memorabilia.”

Funding is available to individuals and not-for-profit organisations, including educational institutions, ex-service organisations, community groups, local government associations, museums and historical societies.

Last year, $50,000 from the Anzac Community Grants Program was shared between 38 projects, including new display cabinets for the Forestville RSL sub-Branch and World War II plaques for the Kearsley Community Dawn Service Committee.

Sandy Howard, Vice President of Forestville RSL sub-Branch said their project enabled veterans to talk about their own story.

“Every little bit of funding helps, especially when our means of fundraising are severely restricted during COVID-19,” Mrs Howard said.

Applications for the grant program will close at 5pm on Remembrance Day, Wednesday 11 November.

For more information visit veterans.nsw.gov.au/commemoration/anzac-community-grants-program/ or call 8688 3039.