Watching the pennies has paid off for the Papakura Local Board, and that’s good news for the community.
Careful cost management has seen the board vote to reallocate more than $50,000 to community activities, money that comes from projects that came in under budget or that did not go ahead.
Board Chair Brent Catchpole says it’s a case of the old saying, “look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves.
“It’s good news because board members decided to reallocate the funding so that The Corner, a group doing terrific things with our young people will receive another $20,000, Strathallan will be able to be included in Matariki celebrations and activities, and another $23,000 will be available to local groups through our grants rounds.”
Based in O’Shannessy Street, The Corner has quickly established itself, promoting creativity and acting as a base for the Papakura Youth Council, kapa haka groups, artists, DJs, a group for differently-abled people, and sewing groups and community activities.
“When you take the time to get to know our young people a little better, you discover their ambitions for the town are no different to your own.
"They want a better town, one where people connect in a real community, valuing what each has to offer,” Brent says.
The extra money will be received with open arms because, like many youth initiatives, funding is always a problem.
Anyone interested in supporting The Corner can visit the site at 85 O’Shannessy St or email thecornercreativespace@gmail.com
