Pete's Tasty Treats is a small South Australian business owned and run by people living with disability.
Late last year, its owner and head baker Pete Griffiths, who runs the business out of the home he shares with his long-term foster carer Belinda, received a $2000 Dame Roma Mitchell Trust grant.
He plans to use the funding - the largest grant of the round - to buy a portable fridge and other items for his growing business.
"I like baking because it's my favourite things to do. I love my business," Pete said.
“I keep very busy – I'm cooking every day. I’m grateful and thankful (to the Trust). It’s very helpful."
Pete (pictured right) was one of 108 recipients to receive a Dame Roma Mitchell grant in September last year. The grants provide opportunities for young people with a care experience to achieve personal goals, and funds can be used to contribute to an individual's health and wellbeing or provide developmental pathways.
More than $1 million in grants have been approved since the Department for Child Protection took responsibility for the fund, in 2018.
The trust offers two rounds of applications each year, with the next round closing on Friday March 8. The second funding round of the year is held in August/September.
Pete, who would love to own a kitchen one day, is now considering expanding his business, which makes cakes, cupcakes and slices to order, to supply local cafes.
Chloe, 16, who spent a year in care but has now been reunited with her mother, used a $257 grant she received to purchase a netball uniform and travel kit to compete at the national indoor netball championship in Queensland.
Her mother said Chloe (pictured below) being able to compete at the event was a boost for her self-confidence and gave her the courage to attempt Year 12 in 2024.
"She had an amazing time in terms of her self-esteem and skills," she said.
"She met netballers from all over the country and still wears the playing kit every day.
"It gives her an immense sense of pride and that wouldn’t have been possible without the Dame Roma Mitchell Grant."
For more information on the grants, including eligibility and how to apply, visit the Department for Child Protection website.
Looking for other grant and funding opportunities? Visit our Grants to apply for now in South Australia guide now.
