The NSW Government has made $11 million available to grassroots organisations helping vulnerable multicultural communities continue to recover from the pandemic.
Minister for Multiculturalism, Mark Coure, said part of the $11 million would see 69 multicultural organisations receive a share of $4 million through the Empowering and Supporting Local Communities grants scheme.
“This funding is about supporting grassroots organisations and NGOs to help local multicultural communities become stronger and more resilient after the pandemic,” Mr Coure said.
“The $4 million will go towards increasing COVID-19 testing and vaccination rates among new and emerging communities, and even help improve the way they receive important health information.”
Mr Coure said $7 million is now available through the Emergency Relief Grant Scheme for NGOs that specifically support specialist migrant and settlement service providers to help temporary visa holders, with a focus on asylum seekers.
“This funding can be used to provide food, or pay utility bills, transport expenses and mental and physical health services,” Mr Coure said.
“Our Government is working to ensure people fleeing to our shores and those that help them have the resources they need to stay healthy and safe.”
NSW Coordinator General for Settlement, Professor Peter Shergold AC, welcomed the State Government stepping up to provide extra funding for community groups.
“This money will directly address the urgent needs of vulnerable temporary visa holders in our community who are experiencing great hardship right now,” Professor Shergold said.
This $11 million forms part of a total $69.7 million the NSW Government is investing into community-run programs, helping the state recover from the pandemic. Applications through the Emergency Relief Grant Scheme will close 5pm Friday, 27 May 2022. For more information, visit: multicultural.nsw.gov.au/emergency-relief-ngo-support-grants/
