Grants to reduce social isolation of seniors

Local councils can now apply for funding for programs aimed at reducing social isolation among seniors. The Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grants Program aims to support initiatives that keep seniors connected to their local community and address challenges that contribute to social isolation. The program includes three categories:

• $20,000 grants for new or innovative projects

• $30,000 grants for known or existing projects.

• $50,000 grants for projects run by local councils.

Applications are open until 11.59pm on Monday September 19. For more information or to apply go to: www.facs.nsw.gov.au/seniorsgrants One suggestion that Eurobodalla Council might consider is to support a weekly Soup and Song social event to be hosted by local community groups entailing the preparation and presentation of soup, accompanied by some live music and even a swap table of books, home grown vegetables, chutneys, cakes and jams. All Council would have to do is waive the hall hire. With a donation of just $5 per week it would allow a bowl of soup, a bun and a cup of tea or coffee to be served with the musicians paid for their appearance. Such an event was held in Tuross Head, called the Tuross Soup song, that saw 120 "diners" enjoy a monthly night out. Hosted by the Tuross Head Community Garden the event was a major success however the increased fees imposed by Council on the hire of the building saw the event come to a sad end. Maybe they might reassess.