Latest round of $5000 Wellbeing Grants now available for flood affected Hawkesbury communities

Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, has launched the latest round of grants of up to $5000 for flood impacted not-for-profit organisations, community groups, and schools across the Hawkesbury.

The grants are part of the NSW Health and Commonwealth Department of Health response to the 2022 floods and can be used to deliver activities that encourage social cohesion, connectedness, community wellbeing, resilience, mental health healing and the recovery of communities.

Esther Perry, Wentworth Healthcare Community Engagement Officer, discusses a grant proposal with a Hawkesbury resident

Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said the last two and half years had been incredibly difficult for everyone, but particularly the Hawkesbury region which had been hard hit by multiple natural disasters.

“We have seen our fair share of challenges and traumatic events on top of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Reay said.

“Our Wellbeing Grants for communities affected by drought and bushfires have

highlighted the importance of community connection and cohesion for greater resilience, both during and after natural disaster events,” she added.

“Through these grants, we have seen new friendships form and isolated community members linked in with appropriate local services and the broader community.

“Communities have reported a greater sense of belonging and strengthened links with those around them, ensuring that when the next disaster hits, they know they aren’t alone and will be well supported.”

“The Community Wellbeing and Resilience Grants for flood affected communities will continue to build on existing and emerging connections,” says Ms Reay, “and allow communities the opportunity to choose their own way to respond to the losses, anxiety and distress they have experienced, as well as actively

participate in their recovery.”

A range of activities and initiatives that support community-led wellbeing will be considered.

The Grants will close at 11.59pm on Sunday July 10. Those considering applying are encouraged to discuss their proposal with the grants team. More information including contact details, guidelines and application form is available at www.nbmphn.com.au/floodgrants

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