Nourishing body, mind and environment are top priorities in South Wairarapa District Council’s annual Community and Youth Grant funds, distributed this month to Martinborough’s foodbank, family oriented projects and forest regeneration.
The largest amount went to the family-focussed Greytown Mid-Winter Christmas festival (run by Country Heaven Trust) followed by The Social Crust foodbank in Martinborough, Wellington Free Ambulance and Aorangi Restoration Trust, regenerating native forests in South Wairarapa.
These groups were the biggest beneficiaries of this year’s grants totalling $120,000.
“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,” Councillor Martin Bosley said in a statement.
“By supporting both our local orchestra and food banks, these initiatives not only enrich our community through music but also (help) ensure that families have access to nutritious food.”
Some 19 applicant groups received funds this year, seven were declined from the 26 applications which applied for $249,289.
The Community and Youth Grant fund is distributed annually by the council’s Assurance Risk and Finance Committee from the 2024-25 Enhanced Annual Plan to support social, environment, economic and cultural outcomes in the community.
Community & Youth Grant Funds 2024-25
- Greytown Mid-Winter Christmas Festival $18,000
- The Social Crust Limited foodbank $15,600
- Wellington Free Ambulance 12,000
- Aorangi Restoration Trust $9,600
- Family Works Wairarapa $9,600
- Featherston Community Centre $7,200
- Kuranui College junior camps $7,200
- Wairarapa Youth Orchestra $4,800
- Wairarapa Earth School $4,800
- Featherston’s Own Charitable Trust $4,800
- Aratoi Regional Trust $4,800
- Martinborough Squash Club $4,800
- Kohunui Marae $3,600
- Featherston Booktown Karukatea Festival $3,600
- Divine River NZ Trust $2,400
- Arrow FM $2,400
- Featherston Bowling Club $2,400
- Saint Mary’s School, Carterton $1,200
- Charlotte Harding mural walks $1,200
Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to apply to community boards and the council’s new
Fund Finder: https://swdc.govt.nz/south-wairarapa-fund-finder/
