Pandemic no barrier to learning thanks to Council grant boost
Published on 08 February 2021
Local university and TAFE students have received emergency relief funding during the pandemic, as part of Frankston City Council’s Student Scholarship Grant package – part of its $7.3 million COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Package.
The Student Scholarship Grants were introduced last year, to help students struggling to buy basic school supplies due to the pandemic. The funding helped students to cover administrative fees, purchase text books, uniforms, equipment, laptops and other items critical to completing their studies.
Recipient Emma is studying a Graduate Diploma of Psychology at Monash University. Emma’s hours in her teaching role were reduced during the pandemic, as student numbers declined.
“Council was thoughtful and helpful in their approach. They ensured I could access the grant money in the most beneficial way for me, taking the time to consult with me throughout the process.
“The grant wasn’t quite enough for me to purchase all the books I needed, so Council arranged a voucher to go towards the fifth book that I needed, so I could utilise the full grant amount.
“I am truly thankful for Council’s assistance in a tricky year,” Emma said.
Councillor Liam Hughes, who begins his own further education journey in 2021, says the funding makes such a difference for students struggling to make ends meet.
“Students make up the majority of the casual workers, and business closures during lockdown hit them super-hard. To make it worse many of their parents or carers also found themselves out of work, adding huge strain to the family budget.
“No one wants to make the choice between putting food on the table and buying a textbook. It’s cool that Council reached out and provided extra support for local students, who just want to continue learning to improve their futures,” said Cr Hughes.
Another recipient, Leanne, is studying Allied Health at Chisholm Institute, and is also a full-time carer for her mum and nephew, who have multiple health concerns.
“I’m on a carer pension and I couldn’t afford to buy a brand new laptop when my old one stopped working. I found out about the program and it was such an amazing opportunity.
“This is the first new computer I have owned. Having a reliable computer, which isn’t constantly breaking down while I’m trying to work, will make all the difference to my studies,” Leanne said.
A dedicated student grant category was a first for Council, who regularly provide grant funding each year to help support local community groups and businesses.
In response to COVID-19 Council initiated a number of new grant categories to support community recovery. To date, more than $680,000 in grants have been awarded.
Council has also provided $410,000 in rate relief to eligible ratepayers, and an additional $300,000 to Community Support Frankston to respond to the increased demand for their service.
Student Grants remain available until 30 June. For more information or apply visit: frankston.vic.gov.au/FTLOF