Cardinia Foundation CEO Di Padgett with Bunyip Scouts Tennyson and Olivia.
By Melissa Meehan
TWELVE local groups received some Christmas cheer on Tuesday, each receiving $1000 from the Cardinia Foundation.
As part of their 12 Days Giving Grants, the Cardinia Foundation handed out the $1000 cheques at a presentation at the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Tuesday.
Lady in red Di Padgett handed out the grants for groups that would not normally fit the criteria for support from the organisation.
ECHO Emerald will use the grant to organise weekly activities for 130 students in term one.
The Pakenham Arthritis group’s grant will go to training volunteers in certificate three inWater Therapy and Tai Chi with Arthritis Australia.
Cockatoo Primary School’s grant will go to a vegetable garden as part of their healthy life programs.
OzChild will use the grant to start up a t-shirt business so funds can then be used to support disadvantaged groups on camps.
Pakenham RSL’s grant will be used to install a public announcement system outside the building.
U3A Pakenham will offer a week-long summer school to offer short courses in computers and crafts with their grant.
A newsletter, the Garfield Spectator will be set up in the town as a result of the $1000 grant.
Bunyip’s Scout Group will use their grant to install a mosaic display in the Scout hall and a glass cabinet display celebrating 100 years of Scouting.
Cardinia Civic Concert Band will be able to play some new tunes next year, using the grant to buy new sheet music.
Susan Banning from Pakenham and Kooweerup Secondary Colleges will use the grant to purchase Fatal Vision Goggles that demonstrates the effects of drinking alcohol to make students aware of the dangers of drinking.
Cardinia Diabetes Awareness Group will be able to continue their monthly support meetings after funding ran dry.
Girl Guides Bunyip will hold a Christmas lunch for members and past members celebrating 100 years of girl guides.
