Woolworths, in partnership with Landcare Australia, is offering over a million dollars in grants to schools and early learning centres for more Aussie kids to get involved in outdoor learning projects. Schools across Hills District are encouraged to apply for the latest round of grants.
The Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants support projects with a focus on sustainable food production, improving waste management or enhancing native habitats. Last year, Tower Street Public School in New South Wales used its grant to create a ‘Crunch and Sip’ garden, where students selected in-season fruits and vegetables to plant, helped design the garden beds and plant the seedlings.
Woolworths Hills District NSW State Manager, Matthew Spiteri, said: “The Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is all about supporting fun and engaging learning experiences that can help younger generations connect with natural environments.
“Our store team across Hills District have been proud to connect with local schools who have previously been awarded a grant. It’s been great to hear how the funding has helped enhance local school communities and support students as they get outdoors and learn more about the local environment.”
Since 2018, the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program has provided more than $5 million in grants to almost 5,000 primary schools and early learning centres across Australia. This has seen more than 400,000 students getting hands-on with nature and caring for the environment in their community.
More than 1,577 schools and early learning centres from across NSW have received grants in the past, including Tower Street Public School.
Dr Shane Norrish, CEO of Landcare Australia, said: “Being outdoors in the natural environment has positive benefits for the mental health and wellbeing of children.
“The partnership between Woolworths and Landcare Australia has enabled hundreds of educators an opportunity to provide meaningful environmental education programs. These programs offer experiences that are helping children learn how they can care for the land and be the next generation of Landcare leaders.”
Applications for the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program are now open until 19th March 2024. The grants offer primary schools and early learning centres the opportunity to apply for up to $1,000. Visit www.juniorlandcare.org.au.
