Four Jimboomba community groups have received an early Christmas gift courtesy of Riverton developers AVJennings.
A total of $8000 was given to the Jimboomba Redbacks, the Jimboomba Cricket Club, Jimboomba and District Cadets and charity Defenders for hope through the inaugural Riverton Community Grants program.
The Redbacks will use their grant to replace flood-damaged goal post pads, the cadets will purchase new uniforms and training equipment and the cricket club will buy a cricket ground drying machine.
Defenders for Hope have used their $3000 grant to purchase a new fridge and freezer for their op shop and food bank on Anders Street, Jimboomba.
Defenders for Hope director Tomeeka Smith said the new equipment would help the charity meet an expected increase in demand as cost of living pressures mount.
"We are currently helping about 45 people per week, and we expect that number to increase due to the stress and expense of the Christmas holidays, so this funding has come at the perfect time," she said.
"While Christmas is a wonderful time of year, there are many people who find it difficult. About 40 per cent of our clients have come to us after escaping domestic violence, and need our help to feed children while they get back on their feet.
"We also assist many people who are homeless, including people who are transitioning between homes or are trying to find a place to rent."
The charity currently offers free hampers to seniors every Thursday, and any member of the community is welcome to purchase a discounted hamper or shop at the food bank.
AVJennings project marketing manager, Madelaine Tiscia, said the grants would help further build a sense of community around the Jimboomba area.
"We are not just here to develop land and build homes, we are here to grow the community too," Ms Tiscia said.
"Organisations like Defenders for Hope and local sporting teams are an integral part of Jimboomba - they provide much needed support and bring people together, to foster a sense of belonging.
"We are pleased to play a part in helping these groups to realise their potential and look forward to extending our support to similar groups in the future."
Applications for the next round of community grants will open in February 2023.
