Charities have been left disappointed and disheartened by the Federal Government closing a key funding program without warning on the eve of the Federal Budget.

The $250 million Building Better Regions Fund Round 6 was scrapped by the Federal Government – despite many small charities spending hundreds of hours on applications.

Charities who applied for funds – applications closed in February this year – were told they would get the results mid-year. But more than eight months later, they received an email stating the program was canned and no funds are being awarded.

Bill Woods speaks with Nat Panzarino, President of Greyhound Rescue, who says “this was just a kick in the guts for us.”

“Like many small but vital charities, we had a modest funding request. In our case, basic infrastructure to help us expand our operations and find more greyhounds a new home.”

Greyhound Rescue, run by more than 240 active volunteers, is a not-for-profit organisation which finds forever homes for greyhounds no longer wanted by the racing industry. It is now desperately raising money to fund a new building at its headquarters in Bargo, NSW.

You can help the greyhounds by donating at greyhoundrescue.com.au

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