10 September 2024

Applications now open for charities to share $170,000 in grants

People First Bank Foundation has today launched its largest grant round to date, calling for Aussie charities to apply for a share in a massive $170,000 in funding.

There will be six grants up for grabs in this year’s round, the first since the change of name from the Heritage Bank Charitable Foundation to the People First Bank Foundation earlier this year.

The new “People First Grant” is the largest grant on offer, giving charities an extraordinary opportunity to apply for a $60,000 boost to support their inspiring work within the community.

Also up for grabs is the $50,000 Our Shout Workplace Giving Grant targeting health care services for vulnerable Australians.  This grant is generously funded by workplace giving donations from People First Bank employees.

There are also four $15,000 Growing Stronger Communities Grants available.

People First Bank Foundation Executive Officer Paul Olds said increasing funding to charitable sector remained as important now as it ever was.

“There are so many inspiring charities in Australia doing an amazing job supporting an ever-growing number of vulnerable people in our communities,” Mr Olds said.

“Today marks another important step forward in our mission to do good. It’s only fitting that our first grant round as the People First Bank Foundation is also our largest."

Mr Olds said People First Bank Foundation grants offered support for a specific program or service.,

“We think it’s important to listen to and work with our charity partners,” Mr Olds said.

“They are at the coal face and know best how to maximise the impact of our funding. That’s why grant funding is connected to a program, rather than one particular aspect of a program.”

Mr Olds also acknowledged the efforts of charities in supporting communities while tackling the challenges of funding in the not-for-profit industry.

“Each year we see applications from so many amazing and impactful charities, and we know this year will be no different.

“While not possible for to support all of them, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge them for their invaluable contribution to growing stronger communities.”

A total of six grants are available in the fifth grant round: 

People First Grant $60,000

One grant will support an existing program of a people-focussed charity that works across the majority of Heritage and People’s Choice footprint in Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and the Northern Territory.

The Our Shout Workplace Giving Grant $50,000

One grant with a focus on health care services for vulnerable Australians and their families.

Growing Stronger Communities Grants 4 x $15,000 each

Four grants at $15,000 each, focusing on one or more of the following areas:

• Positive educational and alternative pathways to help at-risk children and teenagers; 
• Health care services for vulnerable Australians and their families; and
• Support for the economic and social wellbeing of people in regional, rural and remote communities, including in times of natural disasters.

See full details on how to apply and eligibility here.

Applications for this round of grants close at 5pm AEST on 18 October 2024.

The Foundation will notify the successful recipients in early December 2024.