Member for Northern Victoria, Mark Gepp MP announced the local groups that will receive grants of up to $10,000 over two years as part of the Labor Government’s Disability Self Help Grants Program.
“We’re very proud to support YarraMul Carers Support Group and other fantastic groups that do an incredible job helping people with disability, their families and carers,” Mr Gepp said.
“Caring for a friend or loved one can be very rewarding but can also be challenging, particularly in regional areas. This grant will help the organisation continue providing peer support, advice and connection – and play a vital part in health and wellbeing outcomes of carers in the region.”
YarraMul Carers Support Group (auspiced via Yarrawonga Neighbourhood House Inc) which provides peer support for families and carers of people with disabilities and the elderly – are set to receive the $8,695 grant to support their valuable work in the Moira Shire.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan also commented on the funding boost being available to those at grassroot level.
“These grants are just one example of how we’re giving people with disability, their families and carers the support they need at a grassroots level,” Mr Donnellan said.
“Disability self-help groups give people valuable emotional and practical support and help connect them with others dealing with similar challenges – we’re proud to support them.”
A total of 61 groups across the state will receive grants as part of the program. This includes 19 self-help groups from rural and regional Victoria and 10 groups representing diverse communities.
Self-help groups bring together people with lived experience of disability who are dealing with similar challenges to share their experiences, support each other and connect with the community.
Other successful grant recipients across Northern Victoria include:
$2,190 - Hume Post-Polio Support Group – Rutherglen,
$9,900 - Shepparton MS Peer Support Group – Shepparton region,
$9,000 - Sunraysia Carer Support Group (auspice Carers VIC) – Mildura.
The Labor Government’s $378,000 grant funding will strengthen groups by assisting with general expenses, minor works and equipment.
The Government will also evaluate the grants program to better understand how people engage in self-help activities, address any gaps and identify improvements for the future.
To find out more, visit: providers.dhhs.vic.gov.au/disability-self-help-grants-program.
