$20k Grants to Support Mental Health in Farming Communities
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is now accepting applications for grants of up to $20,000 through its In a Good Place (IAGP) program. These grants are designed to support community-driven projects that enhance the mental, social, and emotional wellbeing of people living in remote, rural, and regional areas, with a particular focus on farming communities.
For this round of funding, the IAGP program has allocated $290,000 to assist initiatives or activities aimed at preventing or addressing mental wellbeing concerns. Priorities for funding include increasing mental health education and awareness to reduce stigma, supporting individuals in building connections to combat social isolation, and encouraging people to seek help for their mental health needs.
Thanks to the generosity of FRRR’s donor partners, community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) are invited to apply for grants under two funding streams:
- Community Wellbeing: Focused on projects that enhance the general mental health and wellbeing of people in remote, rural, and regional communities.
- Farmers and Farming Communities: Targeted specifically at projects that support the mental health and wellbeing of farmers and their communities.
Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, highlighted that while Australia’s farming communities are known for their vibrancy and resilience, even the strongest individuals need support at times.
“There has historically been a culture of silence and stigma surrounding mental health issues, but thankfully, this is beginning to change in rural communities,” said Ms Karena.
“Together with our funding partners, we’re helping local groups drive this positive shift in attitudes, and we’re supporting the ongoing efforts to improve mental health awareness in remote, rural, and regional areas."
“We’re particularly keen to fund initiatives that promote open, honest conversations about mental health, support the emotional and social wellbeing of vulnerable community members, and encourage farmers and others who may be struggling with their mental health to reach out for help.”
Ms Karena added that the team looks forward to seeing the project ideas submitted by community groups and NFPs, and to being inspired by their proactive, community-focused mental health initiatives.
Organisations wishing to apply must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 14 February. Final applications from shortlisted groups will be due by 11 March.
Source:
FRRR. Learn more at: frrr.org.au/funding/place/in-a-good-place/. FRRR is also seeking partners for this program. Potential supporters are encouraged to contact partnerships@frrr.org.au or call 03 5430 2399.
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