Nourishing body, mind and environment are top priorities in South Wairarapa District Council’s annual Community and Youth Grant funds, which were distributed this month to foodbanks, family oriented projects and forest regeneration.
These groups were the biggest beneficiaries of this year’s grant which saw $120,000 given out.
The largest amount went to the family focussed Greytown Mid-Winter Christmas festival (run by the Country Heaven Trust) followed by the Social Crust (foodbank) in Martinborough, Wellington Free Ambulance and Aorangi Restoration Trust, which regenerates native forests in South Wairarapa.
“This fund is a powerful example of how we can come together to nourish both the body and the soul, fostering a brighter future for everyone,” says Councillor Martin Bosley. “By supporting both our local orchestra and food banks, these initiatives not only enrich our community through music but also ensure that families have access to nutritious food.”
There were 19 groups of applicants who received funds this year, leaving seven declined, from 26 applications applying for $249,289. Unsuccessful applicants were encouraged to apply to community boards and the council’s new Fund Finder: swdc.govt.nz/south-wairarapa-fund-finder/
The Community and Youth Grant fund is distributed annually by the council’s Assurance Risk and Finance Committee with funding allocated from the 2024-25 Enhanced Annual Plan to support social, environment, economic and cultural outcomes in the community.
Find out more to apply for funds at: swdc.govt.nz/community/grants/
Community & Youth Grant Funds 2024-25
- Greytown Mid-Winter Christmas Festival 15%
- The Social Crust Limited 13%
- Wellington Free Ambulance 10%
- Aorangi Restoration Trust 8%
- Family Works Wairarapa 8%
- Featherston Community Centre 6%
- Kuranui College junior camps 6%
- Wairarapa Youth Orchestra 4%
- Wairarapa Earth School 4%
- Featherston’s Own Charitable Trust 4%
- Aratoi Regional Trust 4%
- Martinborough Squash Club 4%
- Kohunui Marae 3%
- Featherston Booktown Karukatea Festival 3%
- Divine River NZ Trust 2%
- Arrow FM 2%
- Featherston Bowling Club 2%
- Saint Mary’s School, Carterton 1%
- Charlotte Harding mural walks 1%
