Thirteen successful grant applicants are progressing initiatives to benefit the wider community after Aotea / Great Barrier Local Board allocated funding at its April business meeting.
“As an island community we would struggle without the fantastic work and opportunities our community groups provide,” says local board chair Izzy Fordham.
“The board is proud to be able to support them and pleased to see a range of different projects and initiatives aided by this grant round.”
Aotea Family Support Group (AFSG) received two grants: one towards an after-school youth development programme, and the other for the annual New Year’s Picnic event which is enjoyed by the whole motu.
AFSG General Manager Beverley Slater explains they have had to pause the after-school programme due to reduced financial resources, and this funding will allow them to run it again.
“The programme enables our tamariki to forge strong friendships which provide essential support for those who make the huge life transition to move off island to boarding school. It also builds strong relationships with our skilled youth workers which provides a foundation for continued involvement with rangatahi programmes if they stay on the island.”
A highlight of the island’s events calendar, the New Year’s Picnic is a family-friendly fun event which brings the whole community together.
“It benefits other community members who hold stalls at the event and is the main fundraiser for AFSG,” says Beverley.
“This event is crucial to AFSG as it provides our only source of discretionary funds which are used for those situations that ‘fall through the cracks’ of other welfare supports.”
Another project close to the hearts of locals is the Levi Golaboski Memorial bike and pump track at Kaitoke School, which the board contributed $25,000 of grant funding towards to add to the donations already received and fundraising efforts of the school.
Kaitoke School principal Leanne Eloff says the school is incredibly thankful for the grant.
“This support is invaluable in creating a fun, safe, and awesome place for our island's children (and adults) to ride their bikes, scooters, and skateboards.
“The board’s investment in this initiative not only honours Levi's memory but also enriches the lives of our local community, providing a space for recreation and bonding for years to come.”
Other successful grant applicants are: Aotea Community Radio Trust, Island Screens Incorporated, Glenfern Sanctuary Trust, Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust, Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea Trust Board, Great Barrier Island Community Heritage and Arts Village Trust, Great Barrier Island Sports and Social Club, Motu Kaikoura Trust, Great Barrier Island Health Trust, Sea Education (Aotea) Charitable Trust, and Great Barrier Island Golf Club.
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