Country Women’s Association distributes drought relief funds through its on-ground networks

In May 2005, because of its effectiveness and on-ground networks, the CWA was given $3 million of the Federal Government’s $250 million ‘extra drought relief’ to distribute to drought-affected families, small businesses and community groups.

“The funding will help the association support those farmers who may otherwise be reluctant to apply for assistance. It follows the successful distribution of $1 million under a similar arrangement in 2002-03”, said John Howard.

More than half of this $3 million has already been distributed to drought-affected communities. The funds can help struggling families with non-farm expenses like school bills and dental and medical costs, and provide grants to community groups.

CWA national president, Myra Pincott, says the program has been a great success, particularly for hard-hit areas in New South Wales. It enabled primary school children from a little central-western school to go on a planned excursion though their parents just did not have the money. They were awarded a three thousand dollar donation so the excursion could go ahead.

CONTACT CWA NATIONAL PRESIDENT MYRA PINCOTT: Email – myrapincott@bigpond.com