Council fund supports 4000 with cost-of-living relief

More than 4000 vulnerable Redlands Coast residents are expected to receive cost-of-living relief as a result of Redland City Council’s Civic Support Fund.

The one-off $500,000 fund was established by Council last financial year, offering grants to help community organisations provide support to residents in need.

Mayor Jos Mitchell said a report tabled at Council’s August General meeting noted that 23 initiatives were funded, with grants ranging from $4675 to $50,000.

“Families and individuals across Redlands Coast are continuing to feel the impacts of cost-of-living pressures and the Civic Support Fund has allowed grass-roots organisations to make a real difference in their lives,” the Mayor said.

“The organisations have indicated they anticipate they will provide support to more than 4000 residents across Redland City, with all initiatives to be completed during the next 12 months.

“Council’s Civic Support Fund has helped provide a diverse range of initiatives, including community-based health and wellbeing services, grocery vouchers for essential items, clothing, self-care packs, transport and school uniform support.

“The initiatives are supporting an equally diverse range of vulnerable groups including seniors and young people, First Nations families, victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, people with disabilities, and people experiencing homelessness or housing stress.”

The Mayor said four organisations had already completed their funded projects.

“It was heartening to read the feedback from these organisations, which reported the funding was responsive to the community’s need,” she said.

“Care packs and vouchers that have been distributed have not only helped with cost-of-living pressures but have enabled recipients to attend counselling, boosted their mental health or helped provide a healthy meal.

“Most importantly, during the delivery phase of the four completed projects 66 per cent of recipients were referred to other support services such as financial support or counselling support.

“This demonstrates the broader impact and flow-on benefits of the Civic Support Fund program.”

Council resolved at the August General Meeting to note the success and final outcomes of the Civic Support Fund.