Fortescue Metals : Inviting applications for Fortescue Community Support program

Aug 30, 2017

Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) is once again inviting community organisations in the Pilbara to apply for funding through the Fortescue Community Support program.

In its ninth year, the program provides grants of up to $5,000 to support community groups, programs and initiatives within the Council boundaries of the Town of Port Hedland, City of Karratha, Shire of Ashburton and Shire of East Pilbara.

Port Hedland-based not-for-profit Fair Game received funding through the latest round of grants, allowing the training of local volunteers to help deliver health and wellness programs and recycled sports equipment to children in the Pilbara.

'The financial support from Fortescue has provided our local volunteers with the skills to help children stay fit and healthy,' Fair Game Chief Executive Officer Nicki Bardwell said.

'Sport and fitness are integral components of a healthy lifestyle and through the provision of equipment, fitness and education, Fair Game is helping reduce the risk of lifestyle-related disease, build social cohesion and improve mental wellbeing.'

A grant was also awarded to the Roebourne Police and Community Youth Centre (PCYC), which has recently started hosting weekend basketball sessions for local youth.

'The sessions are a positive way to engage with young people while encouraging teamwork and a healthy and active lifestyle. We would like to thank Fortescue for its support and encourage all eligible community organisations to apply for funding,' Roebourne PCYC Centre Manager Samantha Cornthwaite said.

Fortescue General Manager Port and Rail Fernando Pereira said Fortescue was committed to ensuring local communities benefits from the Company's growth and development.

'In the past year, the Fortescue Community Support program has provided around $145,000 to over 70 community, sporting and non-profit organisations delivering a range of programs and activities which are benefitting local communities,' Mr Pereira said.

'We are pleased to be supporting a wide range of programs and activities which are building vibrant communities and improving social and health outcomes for people in the Pilbara.'

Applications for the Fortescue Community Support program are open from 1 September to 30 September 2017. For more information, visit http://www.fmgl.com.au or email community@fmgl.com.au