First established in July 2016, the Community Sponsorship Program is open to community-orientated organisations and groups situated in the Elmore, Lockington and Rochester districts, typically twice per year.
Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester branch manager Alex Rosaia encouraged local groups and organisations to consider applying for sponsorship assistance through the program.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations across the districts to seek funding and support for projects they may be keen to get off the ground,” he said.
“Our previous round of Community Sponsorship Program funding awarded 13 local groups with financial support to help develop new community infrastructure, such as new mural shelters, a community weather station and new solar panels.
“Simply put, the more our customers bank with us, the more our Community Banks can invest back into our local communities.”
Since 2004, the Community Bank branches of Elmore, Lockington and Rochester have returned more than $1.7 million in funding to its local communities.
This will be a special round that focuses on groups and organisations that have been affected by COVID-19 or that are assisting community wellbeing in these difficult times.
This could involve initiatives that deal with the direct financial impacts of COVID-19, that provide mental health support or that strengthen community connections.
Lockmore Financial Services chair Brad Drust said the Community Sponsorship Program highlighted the commitment of the three Community Bank branches to supporting local communities.
“It’s been a tough year with our lives disrupted by COVID-19." he said.
“Like previous funding rounds, this one again provides local organisations with an opportunity to access locally generated capital for community programs, projects and events; however, we are particularly interested in applications that will support our community to bounce back from the impacts of the pandemic.”
Information on how to apply for round eight of the Community Sponsorship Program can be sourced by sending an email to swade@lockmore.com.au or by visiting a Community Bank branch.
Applications close on Monday, September 28.
For more information, contact Sandra Wade on 0413 417 055.
