FINANCIAL Assistance has been provided to numerous community groups following the recent Port Stephens Council meeting on 25 October.

The Tilligerry Art Group, which was formed in 2003 by a small group of Tilligerry artists and craftspeople who saw the need for a local network to provide encouragement and support, will receive a $2,000 Mayoral Fund donation towards automatic roller doors for the gallery.

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Riding for the Disabled Association (Raymond Terrace and Lower Hunter Centre), a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation which provides opportunities for anyone with a disability to enjoy safe, healthy, therapeutic, horse-related activities in Australia, will receive a $400 Mayoral Fund donation towards skip bin fire for the Centre’s Clean Up Day.

The Salamander Bay Men’s Shed will also receive a $2,000 Mayoral Fund donation towards the Men’s Shed Building Fund.

Finally, Councillor Giacomo Arnott will provide West Ward Funds to the Rivergum Kinship Carers Group.

The Rivergum Kinship Carers Group (Grandparents and Parents Support Group) exists to help all kinship carers with support when they take family members’ children into care.

With a limited fund, but a vital support service, Cr Arnott moved to provide $300 towards room hire costs for the group.

Cr Arnott addressed the Council regarding the donation.

“I’ve had various dealings with the group over the years and know how incredibly hard these people work to look after the people in their care.

“These grandparents are often placed into complex parenting situations and having a group where they can swap notes, relax, interact with others in the same situation and just know they have support from others in the same situation is really, really important,” Cr Arnott said.

“I’m hoping that these funds will ensure the group can continue having their meetings, maintaining a home for such a vital service.”

By Tara CAMPBELL