Organisations across the Hunter are being encouraged to apply for a grants program that will provide a boost to youth engagement programs.
According to Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Catherine Cusack, the Community Partnership Action (COMPACT) initiative will fund programs that inspire and empower young people to stand united against hate, extremism, fear and division.
“Communities across the Hunter have demonstrated remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
“There are so many outstanding community organisations working at the grassroots engaging our young people at this difficult time.
“I’m encouraging all eligible local organisations to consider applying for this grants program.
“We are especially keen to see applications from regional NSW to support multicultural youth in the regions.”
NSW Acting Minister for Multiculturalism, Geoff Lee, has announced $3 million over 12 months to expand the program, a boost on previous years.
Mr Lee said the funding comes at a crucial time following the impacts of the summer bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic on young people.
“Community is central to our ability to overcome these shocks and young people are always at the heart of the solution,” he said.
“Since it was established, COMPACT has reached a remarkable 40,000 young people through 24 projects involving an alliance of over 60 partner organisations.
“We are excited to see another round of innovative projects to support young people across our state to thrive and reach their best potential.”
Previous successful COMPACT projects include humanitarian and volunteering initiatives, training and awareness raising programs, art and digital storytelling projects, anti-racism initiatives, interfaith religious collaborations, and sport leadership programs.
The 2020-21 round of the COMPACT grants program will close at 5pm on Wednesday 12 August.
Go to the Multicultural NSW website for more information.
