ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) have announced the distribution of $250,000 in grants to 20 community groups and not-for-profit organizations through the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program. The initiative marks its 20th anniversary this year.
Jenefer Stewart, ANZ General Manager Business Banking, stated, "We understand small communities face unique challenges in terms of access to services and community facilities. Seeds of Renewal aims to support these communities by funding projects that address some of these challenges."
Reflecting on two decades of contributions, Stewart noted, "This year is really special as it marks 20 years of ANZ delivering Seeds of Renewal. In that time, we have provided more than $5.5m to 800 community groups, supporting approximately 900 projects, that have helped to build vibrant and sustainable rural communities and ensure the ongoing prosperity of regional Australia."
The current year's program focuses on aiding remote, rural, and regional communities across Australia. Projects supported include those aimed at improving environmental sustainability; increasing financial wellbeing in disadvantaged or minority communities; enhancing housing access for individuals at risk or experiencing homelessness; and initiatives fostering thriving communities.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, emphasized the importance of long-term partnerships like this one: "These communities are extremely resilient and self-reliant but sometimes they need support to help them bring their ideas to fruition. Partnerships like the one that FRRR has had with ANZ over the last 20 years mean that they know that funding will be available... We greatly appreciate ANZ’s ongoing support."
Since its inception in 2003, ANZ Seeds of Renewal has allocated $5.5 million towards nearly 900 projects. Among this year's funded initiatives are:
- Narrabri Shire Community Radio Incorporated in NSW received $15,000 for solar panel installation.
- Australian Agricultural Centre in Crookwell was granted $15,000 for youth skills training.
- Phoenix Place Inc in Mackay received $8,900 for a social connection space.
- Hub Foundation Castlemaine Limited was awarded $11,330 for composting capacity building.
For a complete list of recipients from this year's program visit FRRR's website.