HUNTER charities and community groups have until February to apply for a share in $600,000 to help fund a local project.
The IMB Bank Community Foundation is looking for projects that will have long term "tangible benefits" for the Hunter community as it opens applications for its 2020 funding program.
Previous projects have included recycling programs and Men's Sheds, public walkways, school gardens, youth driver training, mental health first aid training, equipment for volunteer rescue services, and increased security for victims of domestic violence.
Robert Ryan, IMB Bank chief, said the program was about building "strong, resilient, and forward-focused communities".
"We understand that the key to unlocking community potential can sometimes be simply a matter of combining a great idea and vision with financial support," he said.
He urged all Hunter community groups, not-for-profit organisations, and charities to consider applying for funding.
Elizabeth Hyslop, coordinator of Our Community Place, said the funding program's support had helped them provide vulnerable members of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie with groceries, information, and access to computers via their Community Food Share initiative.
"This is a really important service in our area and wouldn't be happening without this financial support," she said.
Applications close on February 28, 2020. Apply via imb.com.au/community.
