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Some Barossa Enterprises employees will have a much easier time getting around thanks to a $15,000 government grant helped install a much-needed wheelchair access lift in their community minibus. Speaking at the Barossa Enterprises on Friday, CEO Gary Velt (pictured) noted that they had been looking to upgrade their community bus for around five years and said it “feels fantastic” to be able to announce the installation of the lift. Additionally, a step on the main entrance of the bus, also funded through the Grants SA $15,000 grant, has helped make the bus safer and more convenient for all users. It is expected that not only will at least four Barossa Enterprises employees will make use of the new wheelchair lift, the lift will be accessible to the wider community through Barossa Community Options (BCO). Barossa Community Options is the community division of Barossa Enterprises that offers a range of home supports and community programs that promote independence, physical and psychological well-being –teaching everyday skills in a safe and fun environment. Barossa Community Options coordinator Karina Piro said that social outings such as planned activities like bowls and fishing trips can be much more inclusive with the new lift. Previously, supported employee Matthew Nitschke (pictured) had to rely on his parents to get around. The wheelchair lift will provide opportunities for Mr Nitschke to live more independently, make new friends and further engage in the community. “It’s a really good outcome and will help me get out more and socialise,” Matthew Nitschke said. “Home pick-ups are also something which will be great.” Now that the wheelchair lifter has been installed, there is a greater opportunity for Mr Nitschke and others to participate in more meaningful activities in their local community. Grants SA provides over $3 million in grants annually to community organisations to improve community participation, well-being and quality of life for South Australians, particularly those who are experiencing disadvantage. Grants SA allows community organisations to only apply once to be considered for funding across a range of program streams. Interested potential applicants can visit https://dhs.sa.gov.au/ to learn more. To discuss your project idea with a project officer, please call the Grants Team on 1300 650 985.

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