Grants support community initiatives

Five groups in the area will receive a slice of $10,000 to help deliver much-needed community services, thanks to the Cedar Woods Neighbourhood Grants Program.

Warnbro Community and Family Centre, Peel Riding for the Disabled, Staffy and Bully Breed Rescue, Baldivis Children’s Forest, and Youth on Fire WA Incorporated were announced as the winners on Saturday at Cedar Woods Neighbourhood Cinema at Baldivis Secondary College.

Hannah Godsave from Baldivis Children’s Forest said she was delighted with the support from Cedar Woods.

“The grant will be used for a community event for families at the Baldivis Children’s Forest. There will be a night-stalk where families explore the forest by torchlight with a wildlife expert,” she said.

Warnbro Community and Family Centre co-ordinator Natalie McLaren said the grant would assist the centre with building a cubby house in the outdoor are to enhance playtime.

“We’re looking for a builder at the moment because the centre will have to put forward some of the costs,” she said.

Ms McLaren said the centre, which is at risk of losing its funding after the Department of Local Government and Communities proposed changes to its funding system, provided activities for not just children but the whole community. “We also have rooms available for hire for community groups looking for a venue,” she said.

Peel Riding for the Disabled received a grant which will go towards purchasing two horses to provide equine-based therapy for people of all ages and disabilities, while Staffy and Bully Breed Rescue received a grant which will go towards a community event and adoption day.

Youth on Fire WA Incorporated’s grant will assist with costs for transport and youth workers who assist residents who are at high risk of suicide.

The organisation also plans to implement a program at Baldivis Secondary School to raise awareness about the organisation.