Representatives of 16 community groups gathered at the Australian High Commission on 9 December for a handover of project funding for small community development projects spread across all provinces of Solomon Islands.
Australian High Commissioner, Frank Ingruber, presented cheques to the successful applicants for funding under the High Commission's Direct Aid Program (DAP). The funding totalled SBD 350,000 and included water and sanitation, health, education and small income generating projects.The High Commissioner said the DAP program has a strong focus on assisting people at grassroots levels, particularly women and children. Every one of these projects, in its own way, helps improve the lives of Solomon Islanders.
Community representatives expressed warm thanks for the support provided by the Australian Government.
DAP will provide around SBD 1 million dollars for community projects in Solomon Islands this financial year. Individual grants have an upper limit of around SBD 30,000. The High Commission welcomes worthwhile applications from communities that need a helping hand in achieving their goals.