Victorian Minister for Mental Health, Ingrid Stitt, has announced the winners of this year’s Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) grants.
The grants focus on initiatives that promote diversity, reduce stigma and discrimination, and strengthen mental health and wellbeing for young LGBTIQA+ Victorians.
“HEY grants are vital in strengthening LGTBIQA+ communities – to help build a Victoria where everyone feels respected, safe and connected,” said Minister Stitt.
Across Victoria, 12 community-led projects – four in rural and regional Victoria and eight in metropolitan Melbourne – will share more than $100,000.
The recipients include:
- Queer Joy – a youth-led program which will expand an LGBTIQA+ library and deliver social events and group outings for young people in the Bass Coast;
- Worldbuilders – a series of creative workshops in Bendigo where young people design costumes, make props, and create fantasy characters;
- Transforming the Narrative – bringing young trans and gender diverse writers together for a series of creative writing workshops, culminating in a book of short stories exploring their lived experiences.
Other recipients include creative programs, community events, and workshops about healthy relationships.
“We will always make sure young people across Victoria feel safe to express themselves, be who they want to be and get the support they need,” said Minister for Equality, Steve Dimopoulos.
The Labor Government partners with the Youth Affairs Council Victoria to deliver the program.
