THERE could be added Christmas joy in Loddon communities this year with a new grant program launched by Inglewood and District Community Bank.
The bank is offering community groups grants of $5000 to organise local Christmas events.
Chairman Linda Younghusband said the new program followed a board decision not to proceed with a community event originally scheduled for October.
“We have changed our plans as there are a few other activities of similar intent happening between now and Christmas,” Linda said.
“We have decided to give communities an opportunity to organise a full community Christmas event for everyone to enjoy.
“We believe this will give back to more people than our first proposed event. By supporting local community gatherings, people will  not have to travel too far and Christmas is a time to be happy, so why not!”
The community bank continues to support projects in the region, assisting organisations with grants for infrastructure improvements and sponsoring events.
The bank is also continuing its push for child care for southern Loddon communities of Inglewood, Bridgewater, Serpentine and Tarnagulla.
A survey has been launched as part of a feasibility study commissioned by the community bank that has seen $250,000 put on the table towards establishment of a child care centre.