Central Coast Council has announced the first round of funding as part of the Stronger Communities Fund Community Grants Program. A total of 14 not-for-profit community groups will receive a share of approximately $250,000 in grants, towards delivering projects that improve community infrastructure and services.

As part of the $10 million provided to Central Coast Council under the NSW Governments Stronger Communities Fund, $1 million has been earmarked for local community group grants until 2018.

Central Coast Council Administrator, Ian Reynolds, said the grants will help the successful applicants deliver much needed community projects and initiatives across the Coast.

“Congratulations to the successful applicants who will receive funding to deliver a range of essential social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits to our community,” said Mr Reynolds.

“The funding will contribute towards a wide range of vital projects such as improving sports facilities, implementing community programs and restoration projects, which will enhance the lives of Central Coast residents.

“I am looking forward to seeing these projects come to fruition and seeing the community utilise and enjoy them.”

Applications for round two of the Stronger Communities Fund open on 30 January 2017 and close on 24 February 2017.

For more information about the funding program and how to apply for round two, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Successful recipients for round one of the Stronger Communities Fund include:

• The Central Coast Montessori Primary School – Kanyini community garden
• Ourimbah Rugby Club Inc (Razorbacks Rugby Club) – Improved sports facilities
• Cancer Council NSW Central Coast – Community resource van
• Youth Off the Streets Ltd – Fit out of Lakes College alternative high school
• Rotary Club of East Gosford Inc – East Gosford community garden
• Davistown Progress Association Inc – Davistown progress hall centenary restoration project
• Central Coast Bicycle User Group Inc – CCBUG RidesAssist Program
• EDSACC Croquet Club Inc – Sun safety and shelter
• Soldiers Beach Surf Life Saving Club Inc – WiFiSurf, Information Technology Upgrade
• Road Safety Education Ltd – Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) Central Coast workshops
• Central Coast Primary Care Ltd – Older Persons Mental Health Peer Work Program
• Umina Beach Police Citizens Youth Clubs NSW Ltd – Community Bus
• Wyong District Tennis Association Inc – Court upgrade
• San Remo Neighbourhood Centre Inc – Opportunity Knocks social enterprise project