PLS supports community with grants program

Pilbara Minerals (ASX: PLS) has opened applications for its annual Community Grants program, inviting community organisations in Port Hedland and surrounding WA communities to apply for funding of up to $10,000.

PLS chief sustainability officer Sandra McInnes says the support of community-driven initiatives in creating lasting positive impact is incredibly important.

“Our commitment to shaping tomorrow extends far beyond our role in the clean energy transition — it encompasses our responsibility to the communities where we operate and the people who call the Pilbara home,” she said.

“Through the Community Grants program, we’re empowering local organisations to drive the initiatives that matter most to their communities, whether that’s enhancing educational opportunities, building community resilience or supporting the energy transition.”

Since its launch in 2023, the program has made significant impact through its support of local community projects. One such project is the Remote Art School project, an initiative between Spinifex Hill Studio and Strelley Community School.

The Remote Art School project engages and inspires students from the rural Strelley school, located 60km east of Port Hedland, with a series of visual art classes that focus on play, experimentation and preservation of culture.

Spinifex Hill Studio gallery coordinator Clare Wohlnick says the program provides a creative setting to build and strengthen relationships between the students and practising artists.

“The town children were able to form deeper connections with their community-based peers and family members in a cross-generational setting,” she said.

“A large canvas mural was created with paintings from the children and is ready to take back to Strelley community where they will be able to display it.”

PLS’ community investment framework is a crucial part of the company’s operations and collaboration with local communities.

“With more than 30 years of mine life ahead of us, we’re committed to being a long-term partner in the prosperity and wellbeing of the Pilbara,” Ms McInnes said.

Applications close on June 30.