Esther Lauaki
Brimbank organisations are being invited to apply for up to $2.5 million in grants to support the physical and mental health of Victorians, as a new survey shows the impact the coronavirus pandemic is having on the community.
A Victorian Health Promotion Foundation survey looking into health and mental wellbeing during the first lockdown found significant increases in feelings of social isolation, food and financial insecurity and decreases in physical activity compared to February this year.
VicHealth last week announced up to $2.5 million in Reimagining Health grants to support Victorians to create meaningful social connections, get active while staying safe from coronavirus, and access healthy, affordable food.
Chief executive Sandro Demaio said in the midst of the global coronavirus pandemic, it’s vital that we work quickly to support Victorians to achieve better health and wellbeing.
“During the first lockdown, we asked Victorians about their physical health and mental wellbeing to really understand how the pandemic is affecting them,” Dr Demaio said.
“Many Victorians were already fighting an uphill battle before the pandemic hit, but now they are facing even greater challenges when it comes to putting healthy food on the table, keeping active and staying connected to others in their community – a precursor for mental wellbeing.
“These grants have been designed to give local organisations the support they need to continue making a difference to the health of their communities, as soon as possible.”
Dr Demaio said local organisations, such as sports clubs and leagues, arts organisations, community gardens and theatre and community groups, were key to the coronavirus recovery.
“Our grants will help support Victorians facing the greatest health challenges, such as young people and families on low incomes,” he said.
“These grants complement other funding offered by state and federal governments to help support people through this challenging time.”
Applications close 11.59pm on October 27.
Apply: vichealth.vic.gov.au/funding/reimagining-health-grants.
Esther Lauaki
