Woolworths has $2 million for the community

KATINA CURTIS

THE manager of Woolworths Kiama, Don Targett, has a handful of cash he wants to give away to local groups wanting to encourage children’s health and wellbeing.

The supermarket is taking part in the inaugural Woolworths Fresh Food Kids Community Grants, which will give away a total of

$2 million.

Not for profit community groups can apply for up to $5000 each from these funds.

“We’re looking for anything that promotes the health and wellbeing of primary school kids,” Mr Targett said.

“It’s not about putting computers in schools, it’s more about healthy eating and lifestyle. If it encourages healthy eating for kids, that’s good, that’s what it’s all about.”

He said types of projects could include installing playground equipment, after school care or dance competitions, but it was only limited by imagination.

Woolworths’ national community co-ordinator and a representative from the local store will judge the applications.

“It all goes on the merit of the applications, but they would like to think that there would be one grant per community,” Mr Targett said.

He said it was very easy for community groups to apply for the grants, with the groups just needing to collect a form from the store.

“They just fill the form out and if they want to attach more information that’s fine,” he said. “Probably the more information about the specifics and mechanics of it is better because then the judges can make a really informed decision.”

Primary schools can also apply for the grants, but only for activities that are outside of school hours.

Community groups can make only one application each and it can be for any amount up to $5000.

All applications for the grants must be entered by April 26.

Visit www.woolworths.com.au for more information about the program.