Catch kindness
On Sunday 10 May, Community Services #1 launched the Kindness Matters project aimed at creating community connection and spreading joy throughout Canberra and beyond during the COVID-19 pandemic. The social media project challenges Canberrans to participate in “a random act of kindness” each week, then use the hashtag #kindnessmatters to share their deeds and see what others are doing. To join the kindness challenge, visit communityservices1.org/kindnessmatters or follow Community Services #1 on social media to see the weekly task posted every Sunday evening.
GIVIT donation of the week: Beanies, scarves and gloves
A local organisation that supports those struggling with homelessness is after good quality beanies, scarves and gloves in a variety of sizes for both men and women so they can distribute to individuals using their services. Items can be dropped-off to the charity. To donate, visit givit.org.au/items-needed, search “beanies, scarves and gloves” and select requests located in ACT. After you pledge the item, you will be contacted by the relevant charity to arrange pick-up, post or drop-off. GIVIT supports over 300 charities across the Capital Region by matching your quality, pre-loved items with people who need them most.
Share the Dignity
Share the Dignity is assisting women and girls needing period products thanks to their Dignity Vending Machines. Share the Dignity install the vending machines and keep them stocked with free period packs which contain six tampons and two pads. In the ACT, there are three locations that are currently open to the community. They are: Communities@Work, Greenway; Junction Youth Health Services, Canberra; and Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health, Narrabundah.
Red Hill anniversary celebrations
Events planned to celebrate Red Hill Primary School’s 60th anniversary year, including a Community Open Day and evening soiree, have been cancelled due to coronavirus. Organisers are still working to compile the history of the school featuring the recollections, photos and objects of former students and teachers. The P&C will roduce a souvenir magazine to celebrate the anniversary. Former staff and students are also encouraged to mark this significant year by purchasing a personalised paver that will be set in the grounds of a new seating area on the school oval. Single/child or hand-drawn picture paver $50; double/family paver $100. Pavers must be purchased by 3 July. More information: redhillps.act.edu.au or email [email protected]
CEO Sleepout
Due to COVID-19, this year the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, to be held on 18 June, will transform into an online event. Participants can nominate their personal sleepout location – in their car, backyard or couch – which represents common forms of homelessness. To find out more, register or donate, visit ceosleepout.org.au
Grant for Raw Potential Canberra
Local charity, Raw Potential Canberra (RPC), has welcomed a grant from the St George Foundation under its fast-tracked COVID-19 program, which coincided with the recent Youth Homelessness Matters Day. The grant will ensure RPC are able to continue to service the needs of vulnerable young people through these uncertain times and make sure they have the best opportunity to get help and some shelter. More info: rawpotential.com.au
Scouting@Home
Scouting in the ACT has moved online with Scouting@Home a program that supports the development of youth members through a range of interesting activities, many of which lead to recognition in Peak Awards, such as the Grey Wolf, Australian Scout Medallion, Queen’s Scout or Baden-Powell Award.
Government grants
ACT Government grants for community gardens and zero emissions projects are now open with $167,000 available to help community groups improve the city’s sustainability. Applications close 29 June; environment.act.gov.au
The City Renewal Authority is also calling for applications from local individuals, groups and organisations who can develop innovative projects to animate and energise the city’s public spaces. City Grants of up to $50,000 are available, with a simpler application process for grants of up to $10,000. Applications close 30 June; cityrenewalCBR.com.au
