Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann has announced funding of up to $20,000 for the construction of a sorting room for the St. Vincent de Paul Societies Ipswich charity store.

The St Vincent de Paul society will receive the funding under the Blair Stronger Communities Programme Round Two.

The Stronger Communities Programme (SCP) provides grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to community organisations for small capital projects which improve community participation and contribute to the vibrancy and viability of local communities. Grants must be matched by cash and/or in-kind funding from the organisation on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis.

Shayne Neumann said that supporting the application made by the St Vincent de Paul Society was an easy decision to make.“These funds will allow for the construction of a goods sorting room at the St. Vincent de Paul ‘Op Shop’ in West Ipswich.”

"These funds will allow for the construction of a goods-sorting room at the St Vincent de Paul ‘Op Shop’ in West Ipswich," Mr Neumann said.

“As well as serving as a base for much of the work the society does locally, the store also allows funds to be raised for the invaluable work St Vinnies does in our community. For the workers and volunteers who dedicate so much time and effort towards such a great cause, this will be an extremely welcome addition.”

"For the workers and volunteers who dedicate so much time and effort towards such a great cause, this will be an extremely welcome addition.”

Mr Neumann said he has been a long-term admirer of the St Vincent de Paul Society and the work they do in our community which can be felt right across Ipswich and the Somerset Region.

“Whether it’s assisting low-income families, providing help to those sleeping rough, or lending a hand to the community during natural disasters, the St Vincent de Paul society have proved to be an essential part of the Ipswich community time and time again.

“So many people turn to St Vinnies when they are down on their luck and need help, and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support such a great organisation.”

Mr Neumann said that applications for funding under the Stronger Communities Programme are assessed by an independent panel of community members from the Ipswich and Somerset Region.

“I was pleased to lend my support to the independent community assessment panel’s positive recommendation to support the St Vincent de Paul Societies application to ensure they can go ahead with this essential upgrade.”