ENVIRONMENTAL projects, multicultural and First Nations initiatives and social services are among the 17 recipients of NSW Ports’ 2022 community grants program, announced on Friday.
The program this year was focused on supporting community participation, the provision of community infrastructure and on environment and sustainability.
Not-for-profit organisations and community groups were invited to apply for one-off grants of between $5000 and $25,000 for projects and initiatives aimed at supporting communities around Port Botany, Port Kembla and the Enfield and Cooks River intermodal terminals.
NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said the business is an active member of the communities it operates in, as its trade gateways support around 65,000 jobs and many employees live close to the facilities.
“With around one third of Port Botany’s workers and about 99% of Port Kembla’s workforce living in surrounding neighbourhoods, our communities are very much a part of what we do and how we service the people and business of NSW each day,” Ms Calfas said.
“From local schools and sporting clubs to social services and sustainability projects, the 2022 community grants are brimming with dedicated people and many volunteers who give up their time to give back to their communities and we’re pleased to be able to support these efforts.”
Ms Calfas highlighted the broad range of this year’s funding recipients and the impact of the causes.
“This year’s program includes funding for the Deli Women’s and Children’s Centre to support domestic violence victim-survivors, while a grant for Frame Running Wollongong will help purchase more frame runners to support children with a disability,” Ms Calfas said.
“The Fix it Sisters Shed is building a floating island in Sir Joseph Banks Park to support water birds and turtles, while Great Southern Reef inspired murals will be created by the Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions to raise awareness about Illawarra’s coastal environments.
“The Maroubra Lions Rugby League Club’s grant will replace goal post pads in Snape Park and Warrawong Public School are constructing a yarning circle surrounded by native gardens and Indigenous murals for the whole community to enjoy.”
Ms Calfas said working alongside local communities would help build strong, inclusive and prosperous neighbourhoods.
