The Community Board had $18,754 available to support community activities this financial year. Grant applications were requested from community organisations and also from individuals where appropriate.
The Men’s Shed received support for storage facilities to house their new venture, restoring mowers and small engine equipment to give them a new lease of life and return them to the community rather than ending up as landfill. $2,500
Digital Seniors gained support to enable them to provide services to seniors to enable them to confidently use their technology. They currently offer services weekly at Heartlands on Jellicoe Street and bi-monthly at Pirinoa. They also run seminars at the Martinborough library on the last Tuesday of every month. $1,000
Age Concern have extended their services to over 65’s in the South Wairarapa area with their health, connection and falls prevention support. This includes line dancing at St Andrew’s Church Hall which is well attended. $1,639
A contribution was made to the Martinborough Squash Club who have worked over a long period of time to refurbish their premises. They were granted funds to assist them in finishing renovations to the roof so that the building is watertight. $1,500
The Ruakokopatuna emergency hub, newly established in their hall, received funding toward the installation of heaters. In an emergency one of the critical components is the provision of a safe and warm place during weather events. $1,200
A request for support to provide Music Therapy for a small number of children with significant special needs based at Martinborough School was able to be supported. $975
The Martinborough JAB rugby team is undergoing a revival with both boys and girls involved in the junior teams. Four teams are to attend a Junior Community Rugby Festival in Upper Hutt. Funding will enable all players to attend the festival helping to develop skills, teamwork and confidence in a fun and supportive environment. $690
The Social Crust, on Princess Street, includes the Foodbank, 2nd Bite Food Rescue, Priceless on Princess Op Shop and the community garden. It is an essential organisation that supports the wellbeing of community both in Martinborough and south to the coast. The need is continuing to increase. It has many costs that require financial support to operate effectively. $7,500
Jazz in Martinborough is another organisation that was originally set up to provide a festival of jazz for the community. It is run by a small group of dedicated volunteers. Funding will assist with the costs of providing a sound and lighting technician for the three Town Hall concerts and enable the cost of entry tickets to be kept under $50. $750
Finally, the Martinborough Museum is updating the information display sheets that tell the story of Martinborough’s history alongside its extensive collection. The museum is staffed by volunteers and dependent on funding from the community and donations from visitors. $1,000
The Community Board looks forward to receiving reports from these organisations outlining the utilization of the grants and the success of their various endeavours.
(martinboroughcommunityboard@swdc.govt.nz)
