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Grants Boost Available To Local Volunteers Funding of up to $20,000 is available to volunteer groups across Gippsland working in local bushfire zones, Member for Morwell Russell Northe said today. By news@gippsland - 25th February 2009 - Back to News "The volunteer effort across our region has been nothing short of amazing," Mr Northe said.
"From the heroic endeavours of those directly fighting the fires; the many wonderful people assisting at local incident control, relief and recovery centres; those rolling up their sleeves to help with the clean up; and all the locals giving their time at charity depots and call centres or rattling a tin around the town – every effort is helping to get our friends and neighbours back up on their feet."
Mr Northe said the Emergency Volunteer Support Grants – Bushfire Relief Program offered practical help to volunteers and local community organisations providing volunteer emergency relief to communities affected by the Delburn & Churchill complex fires.
Smaller grants of up to $5000 are also available to groups through the Victorian Volunteer Small Grants – Bushfire Relief Program.
"Grants may help organisations pay for the out-of-pocket expenses of volunteers, replacement of essential equipment lost in the fires, volunteer training and recruitment or personal support including counselling," the Nationals MP explained.
"Essentially the funds will give groups a chance to help those helping others."
Applications can be submitted at any time however the project or activity must start within two weeks of receiving the grants, Mr Northe advised.
Not-for-profit community organisations including emergency relief, sporting and recreational groups providing volunteers to work in fire-affected areas can apply online (preferred method) at www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au. For information on alternative methods of submission or to discuss your proposed project, please contact the Grants information Line on 1300 366 356.
The Emergency Volunteer Support Grants – Bushfire Relief Program guidelines are available via the website above and at Mr Northe’s electorate office, 66 George St Morwell (ph: 5133 9088)
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com

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