Foundation gives more than $100,000 to local groups

In the financial year 2021/22, Bass Coast Community Foundation gave more than $100,000 to community initiatives supporting local young people and increasing opportunities for local women and girls.

Executive Officer Sarah Bourke said this achievement was significant given the challenges faced by the sector as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re hoping this year’s fundraising – and in particular our upcoming 20 year celebration – helps raise more funds so we can continue to support the work of our amazing local organisations as they build the capacity of our local community,” she said.

Programs supported by the Foundation in 2021/22 include:

• Bass Coast Kids as Catalysts Program – being delivered at Newhaven, Bass Valley and Powlett River Primary Schools, aiming to ignite young people to become catalysts for change in their local communities.
• Back to School vouchers – supplied by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, 739 Back to School vouchers distributed to students in need across Bass Coast.
• YMCA (YES Youth Hub and YMCA Cowes) – supported to establish a pantry for young people sleeping rough, couch surfing or with limited access to quality food at home; as well as funds to support young people to attend sport and recreation activities.
• Bass Coast College – the Joan Eltringham Memorial Fund launched to improve well-being, inclusiveness and literacy for vulnerable and disadvantaged children.
• Bass Coast Special School – funding to introduce a play-based therapy program for students with learning difficulties and communication challenges.
• Bass Coast TAC L2P Program – long standing support for learner drivers without access to a supervised driver or car to be matched with a mentor driver and program vehicle.
• Philip Island Community and Learning Centre – funding to support ongoing costs of their food pantry, including food hampers and meals prepared by volunteers.
• Kinship Carers – funding to support this Phillip Island group to meet weekly, most of whom are dealing with challenging situations daily providing support to parents and children.
• Swell Mamas – funding for a beginner surfing program to help women and mothers learn a new recreation activity, gain self-confidence and build their social network.

Tickets for the Foundation’s 20-year celebration at the Cape Paterson Life Saving Club are on sale until November 11

Tickets are $120 and include a two-course meal, welcome drink, live music and a donation to the Foundation. Gifts and prizes and a silent auction on the night.

Buy your tickets at Bass Coast Community Foundation 20 year celebration Tickets, Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club, Cape Paterson | TryBooking Australia