Children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ballarat will be given opportunities to participate in sport with funding from a new community grants program.
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The Ballarat Foundation Peter Amor Sports Participation Fund will provide $7,500 to three Ballarat charities for distribution to families who are facing financial barriers to participating in sport.
The fund was set up by the Amor family with funds bequeathed by Peter.
The former Holden car dealership owner, who grew up in Warracknabeal but spent most of his life living in Ballarat, died on January 21 2018 at the age of 71.
Sport can provide pathways and opportunities that enrich and can change lives
- Tracy Anscombe, WRISC Family Violence
Mr Amor was a founding member of the Ballarat Foundation and was involved in Rotary and the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal throughout his life.
His wife Gwen Amor said Peter had always loved sport, particularly swimming and football, and was passionate about contributing to community.
"He always felt sport was a way to help build confidence and personality," she said.
Families in need presenting to Anglicare, Salvation Army Ballarat and WRISC Family Violence Support will be able to access $100 Sports Participation grants.
WRISC Family Violence Support children's counselling program team leader Tracy Anscombe said many children missed out on opportunities to participate in sport when family budgets were tight.
"Sport can provide pathways and opportunities that enrich and can change lives," she said.
"Often children are dealing with trauma. Sport can help them form friendships, normalise their behaviours, expend energy and find enjoyment. It might be a spark that leads to a bigger thing for a child who might not ever have thought they could do it.
"It is so important to be a part of a community in regional areas. Sport can also be the kickstart to a healthy lifestyle."
Salvation Army Ballarat team leader John Clonan said the grants would help include disadvantaged families in community.
Funding for the Peter Amor Sports Participation Fund will be renewed annually.
Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
