Upgrade boosts community inclusiveness program

Helping disadvantaged and disconnected people of all ages in the Bundaberg region will be made easier thanks to a grant from the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt congratulated Angels Inc which has been awarded $16,824 to fit-out and furnish the community hall and open a retail shop.

“Angels Inc runs many programs for people of all ages, including friendships groups, travel groups and community enterprise programs,” he said.

“The upgrade to the facilities at the hall means these programs – including a community inclusiveness program – will continue to help a wide variety of people in the community.”

Mr Pitt said the Stronger Communities Program has been a boost for community groups and organisations that would otherwise struggle to generate the funding for this type of work to be done.

Angels Inc operations manager Sue Tasker said the group identifies a need in the community and then works together to develop an enterprise project to fill the need.

“Participants take great pride in the work they perform and regardless of age and community stature develop positive self-worth and esteem by assisting others,” she said.

Previous groups have worked together on arts and crafts activities and then hosted a community Cent Sale, where profits went to assist two deserving members of the community to seek medical treatment.

Ms Tasker said another activity earmarked by the group is to create sleeping bags and bedding for the needy.

“We are also opening a new retail shop on Saturday – called Second 2 None at 45a Walla Street – which has a variety of handmade products including furniture, artwork, pot plant stands.  It also has a range of refashioned clothing including prom dresses.”

Through the Stronger Communities Programme, eligible community groups can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 for small capital projects. All applications need to commit at least matching funding or in-kind contributions.

Each Federal Electorate is allocated $150,000 a year over two years. For more information go to www.infrastructure.gov.au/SCP