Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh hopes local sporting organisations will serve up some great ideas for delivering mental health and wellbeing activities as part of a $2.8 million Mental Health Sports program.
Mr Singh said clubs can apply for grants of up to $150,000 until 6 March for activities that provide mental health, resilience and wellbeing benefits to individuals and groups across the local region.
“Sporting clubs are the heart and soul of the Coffs Coast, helping to forge strong community ties and a strong sense of place,” Mr Singh said.
“I strongly encourage local sporting groups to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity, so our region can kick goals both on and off the field.”
Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the NSW Government is looking to sporting clubs to inspire people to make their mental health and wellbeing a top priority in 2022.
“These grants are intended to take conversations about mental health out of the clinic and into the clubhouse. We want people talking about how they’re going emotionally and mentally in a setting they are comfortable with,” Mrs Taylor said.
“As well as being a fun recreational activity, exercise in almost any form can act as a stress reliever. Being active can boost your feel-good endorphins, distract from daily worries and is a great way to meet new friends or catch up with old ones, making it a fantastic remedy for maintaining a healthy mind and lifestyle.”
All NSW-based sports bodies are encouraged to apply, with the aim of ensuring a spread of funding and projects across the State. Grants will be available to clubs supporting both general populations and the following priority populations:
- Aboriginal people
- Culturally and linguistically diverse people
- LGBTIQ+ people
- People with coexisting mental health, alcohol or other drug issues.
To start your application, please visit:
