Stand Like Stone Foundation’s annual grant round is now open for applications for community projects in the Limestone Coast.


The annual small grants round opened on Monday with grants of up to $10,000 available for local projects.


Last financial year, Stand Like Stone Foundation awarded over $78,500 in grants to 17 community-led projects across the region.


Grants distributed by Stand Like Stone supported the Mount Gambier Cancer Support Group, Keith Theatre Group, Mount Gambier City Band, Longridge Aged Care, Foodbank, Fringe Berrin, Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival, The Nurtured Village, Four Reasons Why, Carpenter Rocks Progress Association, Limestone Coast Toy Library, Penola’s Tandara Lodge and Holdfast Limestone Coast.


“Small grants are one of the key ways we support the Limestone Coast community thanks to the support of our donors,” Stand Like Stone chief executive Jason Wallace said.


“If you have a project or cause that needs a little support to get off the ground, now is the time to apply.”


Mr Wallace said Stand Like Stone was particularly looking for initiatives that strengthen health and wellbeing, education, welfare, the arts, inclusion, animal welfare, community development and the environment.


“What I love about the Stand Like Stone model is fundraising has been growing for 20 years, including through the incredible annual Swinging with the Stars event – so many people give so much, and we are truly grateful,” Mr Wallace said.


“Every dollar raised is invested and we only use the income earned from those investments for our grants and scholarships – that means the fund keeps growing and so does our shared impact, not just for today, but for generations to come.”


Chairperson Georgie McKay said Stand Like Stone had proudly worked in partnership with our region supporting communities right across the Limestone Coast for 20 years.


“As funding for these projects comes directly from the community, it’s everyone who has ever donated to Stand Like Stone that makes these grants possible,” she said.


“Our grants program enables Stand Like Stone to respond to the needs of the people and communities of this region, ensuring local projects receive local support, so we’re certainly encouraging everyone to get on board and apply now.”


Applications close October 31.


Further information, including grant guidelines and an online application form, are available at standlikestone.com.au/grants


Stand Like Stones 2025 scholarship round is also approaching and will be launched October 1 with applications closing November 15.