A free information session will be held at 10am on Monday 4 March for community groups and organisations wanting to learn more about the ClubGRANTS Scheme.

The program offers financial assistance to local community based organisations that would otherwise struggle to meet increasing demand.

In its 21st year, the ClubGRANTS scheme is designed to ensure larger registered NSW clubs in contribute to the provision of local frontline community services.

Last year, registered Shellharbour City clubs donated over $260,000 to services and community based organisations as part of the Category 1 program.

Participating clubs this year are: Shellharbour Workers Club, Oak Flats Bowling and Recreation Club, Albion Park RSL, Warilla Bowls and Recreation Club, Warilla Sports Club, Albion Park Bowling Club.

The ClubGRANTS Scheme is a state-wide initiative in which local clubs provide significant financial support for projects and services that contribute to the wellbeing of their local communities.

Category 1 supports community welfare and social services; community development; employment assistance activities; community health services; and projects aimed at improving the living standards of low income and disadvantaged people.

Local community groups/organisations are invited to seek financial support through the Category 1 funding program.

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said the scheme saw the city’s larger clubs contributing to the provision of vital community services.

"Local community groups rely upon this money to provide ongoing services and support to our residents," Cr Saliba said.

"Council is proud to participate in this program and it is fantastic to see our local registered clubs putting so much back into the community," she said.

The Shellharbour ClubGRANTS 2019 Category 1 round opens on 4 March and closes 26 April.

To register for the information session at www.shellharbourclubgrants.eventbrite.com or phone 4221 6007.

For more information on the ClubGRANTS scheme visit www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/clubgrants.

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008.