Previous Recipients

Meals for Change

Supporting young people, aged 15-25, to access affordable meals in local cafes, Meals for Change used their grant to provide over 500 visits and in excess of 700 meals. Received during the Covid-19 pandemic, Meals for Change were able to provide a meal, offer a chance for their members to connect with others during periods of isolation and support local small businesses struggling with reduced patronage.

Jenny Pollard, Meals for Change Coordinator

Child and Family Services, Ballarat

CAFS (Child and Family Services, Ballarat) were very grateful for the funds received from the Ballarat Connected Communities grant program to support their Thread Together Clothing Hub. To continue to provide this resource across our region, additional funding is required to underwrite the ongoing, operational costs associated (approximately $200,000 annually) with the service delivery. The grant enabled CAFS to cover some of the overheads of our Thread Together Clothing Hub for another 12 months so that they can continue to support vulnerable members of our community.

Selena Eldridge

West Vic Academy of Sport

Using the Ballarat Connected Communities Grant, West Vic Academy of Sport developed their Athletic Education Program. The program provided athletes, parents, families and coaches with the opportunity to learn from experts about strength and conditioning, leadership development, sports psychology, parenting for performance, mindfulness, peak performance, injury management and prevention in addition to diet and nutrition.

Victoria Bowling Club

The Ballarat Connected Communities grant contributed towards the upgrade of the kitchen at Victoria Bowling Club, enabling the club to continue to host community members. The club continues to build their vibrant community and is used by grounds such as Morning Melodies, Ballarat County and Western Music Association, Ballarat Multi-cultural Council and CWA Victoria.

Sovereign Knights

Sovereign Knights used their grant to develop and provide an 'at home kit' for children to continue their love for basketball throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst keeping them active and engaged in the sport and developing their skills. The kits included a basketball, polo shirt, drink bottle and sports bag.