WANT to hold a barbecue to welcome new neighbours to your street, run a working bee to tidy up a local park, or install a new street library for all to use?

Wollongong City Council is keen to support great, community-focused projects that build connections between neighbours and local community members. Council’s Connecting Neighbours Grants are open from now until 5pm, Monday, March 25, 2024.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said the Connecting Neighbours Grants offer small groups (an individual with at least two other friends or neighbours) grants up to $250 and ideas supported by a local organisation, up to $1000.

“These grants are specifically for community-led ideas,” he said.

“In past years, we’ve supported everything from a walking school bus, local picnics and afternoon teas, community days to gardening working bees.”

“Forming connections in our neighbourhoods is an important tool for overcoming loneliness, isolation by building new connections. It’s also a great way to get to know your neighbours who can be there to help assist during times of emergency. You never know when you might need the help of your neighbours, or they might need you.

“I encourage everyone to have a chat with your neighbours and submit an idea.”

To apply for the Connecting Neighbours Grants, applicants must be based in the Wollongong Local Government Area (LGA). You also will need the support of at least two other neighbours or community members, be part of a community group, or represent a small community organisation.

To apply and find out more, see here.

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