Thirteen groups will share more than $50,000 in funding after Manurewa Local Board’s latest funding round.
The largest Local Grant went to the Mountains to the Sea Conservation Trust for its work with Findlay Park School, where about 160 young people are involved.
Board chair Joseph Allan says the trust supports the Experiencing Marine Reserves education programme, and a second initiative called the Whitebait Connection, which involves freshwater education programmes.
“This group works with our rangatahi and teaches them to become the next generation of guardians of our streams and oceans, an area that is a stated aim of the board. Its education work is invaluable.”
The trust sees education as vital to environmental restoration and widens its programmes to involve not only young people, but their parents and the wider community.
“Its work reinforces concepts such as the uniqueness of our freshwater and marine biodiversity, and helps communities achieve conservation through science-based programmes, resources, projects and community engagement,” Allan says.
Four sports and recreation groups also received grants.
“It’s always satisfying to be able to support groups helping provide opportunities to keep our communities active and healthy.”
Auckland Basketball’s grant will support its work in the board’s area, Counties Manukau Gymnastics received funds to help with venue hire costs, Manurewa Rugby League’s players will be using new tackle bags, and the All Seasons Community Sports Trust will be able to buy much-needed equipment.
In the arts, Manurewa’s Senior Citizens and the Auckland Seniors Group both received funds to help provide activities for older residents, while the Southern District Chinese Association was funded for a dragon boat festival and tai chi performance equipment.
The remaining grants went to community groups, with Life Education, Urban Neighbours of Hope and the What Hope Community Trust all getting funds to support their work.
Weymouth Residents and Ratepayers will stay in the know after a grant to allow the group to continue publishing its local newsletter, and Manurewa Neighbourhood Support got funds for a range of resources it needs to help keep the community safe.
The grants round was again heavily over-subscribed, with applications for more than $120,000 worth of funding received.
“The board had to make some tough decisions because there were so many excellent applications,” Allan says.
The board’s next local grant round opens on 14 May, with details here.
