Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke urged eligible organisations in the Cootamundra electorate to apply for the grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.

"We want to fund innovative ideas to help seniors keep in touch by utilising phone calls, online platforms or other methods of communication," Ms Cooke said.

"With so many seniors now missing their regular social activities, we want to encourage programs which foster inclusion and encourage positive social outcomes."

Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said applications for the Combatting Social Isolation for Seniors During COVID-19 grants program are now open until April 26.

"While more seniors are staying at home to protect their health, we do not want to create an epidemic of loneliness in our community," Mr Lee said.

"Our most vulnerable age groups are being advised to follow social distancing rules, so face to face catch-ups and normal daily routines have become difficult."

Social inclusion is a key priority of the NSW Ageing Strategy and is part of the NSW Government's key commitment to meet the needs of our ageing population.

For more information: www.dcj.nsw.gov.au/combatting-social-isolation-for-seniors

Seniors are urged to get the latest COVID-19 information at: www.health.nsw.gov.au

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