One local group in Sydenham will share in $3million of VicHealth funding to help their communities reconnect and improve their health following the impacts of coronavirus and the Victorian bushfires.

BrimActive Fitness are among the organisations to receive a VicHealth Reimagining Health Grant to:

• help locals build better social connections with each other and the community and
• provide greater opportunities for physical activity.

BrimActive Fitness will receive funding to run a group exercise program for culturally and linguistically diverse women focused on fitness through Pilates. The initiative reduces barriers to exercise for women from culturally diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds and fosters social connections within an inclusive space by providing high-quality low-cost classes as well as childminding.

Natalie Hutchins MP, State Member for Sydenham stands committed to supporting those in the community who need it most.

“This much-needed funding from VicHealth aims to ensure local organisations can continue supporting our community to get their health and wellbeing back on track in 2021 and beyond,” Natalie Hutchins MP said.

“Sydenham’s grassroots organisations understand our communities needs and can deliver locally-led solutions to empower [electorate] residents to improve their health and wellbeing in the wake of the pandemic.”

VicHealth CEO Dr Sandro Demaio said community organisations play a vital role in helping Victorians hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic and the Victorian bushfires to connect and take care of their wellbeing.

“This funding is about empowering fantastic grassroots organisations so Victorians facing disadvantage can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of being active, eating healthy food and being socially connected,” Dr Demaio said.

“Protecting our health and wellbeing is more important than ever, so we’re thrilled to be able to help more Victorians enjoy better health and wellbeing through the direct support of their local clubs, organisations and community groups.”

For further information, visit http://bit.ly/VHgrantshelp.