By Parker McKenzie
A Yarra Ranges and Knox based charitable organisation will receive a $50,000 grant from the state government if the Labor Party is re-elected at the November state election.
The election promise for Foothills Community Care was announced on Wednesday 19 October by Labor candidate for Monbulk Daniela De Martino.
Meals coordinator for Foothills Community Care Shannon Kay said the funding would allow Foothills to further build its programs, outreach and new initiatives.
It’s really validating of the work that we do and particularly of Stephen as the founder and CEO of foothills for over 20 years,” she said.
“He’s really built something that has such a strong and well-known reputation in the community to attract this kind of support.”
Foothills Community Care was established in 2002 to provide a space where people can connect and engage with each other, as they address challenges like family and domestic violence, homelessness, addiction, poverty, mental health issues and social isolation.
Ms Martino said for many people, Foothills Community Care is more than just a meal.
“It’s about being welcomed at the table and sharing conversations in a safe and inclusive space. Which is why we’re supporting this wonderful not-for-profit organisation,” she said.
“Labor is doing what matters because no one should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.”
The grant money can be used wherever needed throughout the organization, which runs community meal nights in Ferntree Gully and Upwey alongside other services.
Ms Kay said it costs roughly $1000 a week to cover all the food programs run by Foothills Community Care without considering “behind the scenes” and administrative costs.
“We also recognise that we are one of many organisations, and there are a lot of wonderful projects going on throughout the community,” she said.
“We really appreciate being noticed and we recognise that it takes a whole community approach to respond to the needs as well as create the connections and build a healthy, well-connected community overall.”
Liberal candidate for Monbulk Gareth Ward was contacted for comment.
