Organisations that support senior Victorians across the state are being encouraged to apply for the 2018 Participation for Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Seniors grants program, which are now open.

The grants available through the Participation for CALD Seniors Grants Program are worth $300,000 this year, with organisations eligible for funding of up to $10,000 for projects that specifically encourage culturally diverse seniors to connect with their communities.

The Member for Werribee Tim Pallas said seniors from CALD backgrounds are often refugees or migrants who are at higher risk of social isolation because of barriers such as language, limited mobility, poor health, lack of confidence and lack of knowledge of available supports and activities.

Since 2011, the program has funded more than 300 projects, helping thousands of culturally-diverse seniors to connect with their community, taking part in activities such as group outings, English classes, fitness classes, and cultural celebrations with traditional dance and music.

The projects have also focused on improving communication links for older people at risk of isolation, teaching them how to use Facebook and set up social media groups.

The funded organisations will be supported by the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria to get their projects up and running.

Applications close 1 June, 2018 and grant recipients will be announced in August.

For more information on the grants go to www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/get-involved

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“The CALD highlight and raise awareness of the breadth of community supports and activities available across our state for all seniors, from all backgrounds to help them lead happy, fulfilling lives.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley

“I encourage the relevant groups or organisations, to take part so we can continue the great work of previous grant recipients in helping isolated CALD seniors participate more fully in our community life.”