SOCIAL ENTERPRISE GRANT TO DELIVER RUSSELL ISLAND KITCHEN BICS MAKEOVER Bay Islands Community Services (BiCSI) will install a brand-new kitchen to support the vulnerable, thanks to a Palaszcvzuk Government Social Enterprise Growth grant. Member for Redlands, Kim Richards, said BICSI will invest their $24,300 grant in stainless steel cabinets and commercial appliances for their Russell Island enterprise. “BICSI’s support of the communities on Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra Islands is second-to- none. “Their team of volunteers are genuine local legends working to deliver better outcomes for the unemployed and disadvantaged. “Social enterprises like this are community assets and I’m proud that the Palaszczuk Government is backing them.” Angela Collins, BICSI’s manager for Russell Island, said the grant would be life-changing for vulnerable residents. “We’ve been operating with a very old kitchen for many years and could not provide cooked meals or cooking workshops. “Now we can replace our very old kitchen and install stainless steel elements to create a commercial standard kitchen.” Angela Collins added that BICSI would be able to provide hot meals for homeless people and teach new mums and victims of domestic violence basic nutritional cooking. “Currently we help about 50 people a month. With a proper kitchen we will be able to help many, many more,” she said. Minister for Employment and Small Business, Di Farmer, said 30 organisations have shared in more than $635,000 to grow their operations and goodwill. “Social enterprises are businesses that address social, cultural and environmental challenges and invest their profits towards that purpose,: Minister Farmer said. Funded organisations can invest in things like new equipment, training or strategic advice and website improvements to scale up or adapt their operations. For more information on support available for social enterprises, visit the Business Queensland website: https://www.business.qld.gov.au or call 1300 369 935
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