Grants round brings early Christmas

Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF) has announced the recipients of its seventh annual grant round.

Almost $50,000 will be shared by 23 organisations across the Northern Rivers.  This comes from the annual earnings of the permanent investments that have been building up each year, donated by people throughout our region. There will be more next year.

‘It was hard for us to choose amongst the applications. There were a lot of great programs – we wanted to fund them all,’ said Ms Karin Kolbe, Chair of the Grants Committee.

‘We’re delighted to be able fund so many programs for children and young people. From assisting young children with speech difficulties, to art sessions, Friday night music mentoring, to residential camps for troubled boys.’

Other programs funded will assist adults who need help with fighting mental illness, dealing with homelessness, getting transport for medical purposes and horse-riding for those with disabilities.

The range of grants also includes funding for programs for the community as a whole, like an outdoor cooking facility in Casino and a mural at the Byron Bay Community Centre.

“Every year the total of the requests we receive far exceeds our gift fund – and this year was no exception,’ said Ms Karin Kolbe.

‘In total, $285,921 was requested and sadly we could only meet 17% of that amount.’

‘Our Christmas appeal is now open and we invite donations at www.nrcf.org.au or by phoning 6621 9996. Donations are ethically invested and the income is gifted to groups in the region, year after year.’

Picture: Some of the NRCF grant recipients for this year are pictured at the recent presentation ceremony with Chair of the NRCF Grants Committee, Karin Kolbe (far left) and NRCF Chairperson, Lucy Ashley (far right).