Sutherland Hospital’s maternity ward was the scene this week for the announcement of the opening of grant applications for 2018 from IMB Bank’s Shire Community Foundation.
Community groups have the chance to share in $100,000 in grant funding for worthy projects.
The Shire Community Foundation was formed when The Shire…Local Banking merged with IMB Bank last year, with a commitment to return $300,000 to the local community in grants over a three-year period.
Sutherland Hospital’s maternity ward was one of 13 successful grant applicants to the Shire Community Foundation in the inaugural year of funding last year.
More than 1400 babies are born each year at Sutherland Hospital and when the maternity ward needed funds to buy new equipment it applied to the IMB Bank Shire Community Foundation.
With the funding, the birthing unit was able to purchase electronic thermometers, baby scales and foetal heart rate monitors, all essential pieces of equipment.
The Shire Community Foundation is now open for applications for funding in 2018, with another $100,000 available to assist local projects that provide much-needed services to the area.
Sutherland Hospital’s Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services, Jan Heiler said funding from the Shire Community Foundation enabled the purchase of medical equipment for the benefit of mothers and babies.
“The support we received from the Shire Community Foundation is greatly appreciated and assists us to continue to provide quality healthcare services to our patients,” Ms Heiler said.
IMB Bank chief executive officer, Robert Ryan urged community groups, not-for-profit organisations and charities to put in an application for 2018.
“There are many incredible groups in our local area that do so much good for other people,” he said.
‘We are always interested to hear about new projects, particularly those that need seed funding to start or projects already in operation that are looking to expand.
“The 13 projects we supported in the Shire in 2017 ranged from funding the Look Good Feel Good program to assist people with cancer to the local PCYC to deliver get-fit sessions to young teenagers and helping the Menai Men’s Shed with funds to expand their facility.
“But it all starts with an application. The local area has many people with great ideas and vision and IMB Bank Shire Community Foundation can provide the funding so together we can make our communities better for everyone,” he said.
Applications close on February 9.
To apply, go to www.imb.com.au/communityfoundations