Rhyme Time Returns: Rhyme Time is back in full swing with parents and young children embracing the weekly sessions now being held at Forbes North Public School. Previously held in the town library, the change of location was due to COVID restrictions not allowing voice projection in enclosed spaces. Rhyming helps babies and young children to learn about words, sounds and the formation of language. Hearing rhyme and rhythm helps children develop a strong foundation for early literacy skills and is important for early brain development. The new location of Rhyme Time at Forbes North Public School is accessible via Facey Street which allows for ample parking and a beautifully shaded area for families to enjoy. Organiser Maree Yapp said she was thrilled to have Rhyme Time back after a lengthy COVID hiatus. The group now meets weekly at 9.30am each Friday.

Christmas Hampers: Foodbank delivered a pallet load of 60 Christmas hampers to Forbes North Public School (FNPS) on Friday, 7 November, which are still being distributed to families throughout Forbes. The school and Foodbank have teamed up over this year, with volunteers from FNPS help- ing with Foodbanks July food drop at the Forbes showgrounds and Foodbank also running their School Breakfast Program at FNPS. While there has been a generous amount of rain this year, Foodbank recognises that families are still living under the strain of drought. To donate $35 for food hampers, follow the link of the Forbes North Public School Facebook page.

Veteran And Community Grants: Grants for activities and services which improve the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families in the Riverina and Central West are now available, with the latest round of Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program now open. The project aims to promote a healthy lifestyle, help veterans to live independently, reduce isolation, and to provide support to carers. The provision of these grants will enable communities to choose where funding is allocated, this is because it is the communities who know best which services will benefit individual veterans and their families the most. For information about how to apply visit the Community Grants Hub website www.communitygrants.gov.au. Assistance with grant application queries is also avail- able by phone on 1800 020 283 or by email support@communitygrants.gov.au. Grant applications will close 29 January 2021.