Grants splash lights the way
A whopping $613,000 in grants were approved by Central Lakes Trust last month to help community groups across Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.
The grants include $75k for a collective impact initiative, in partnership with Volunteer South, provisionally called The Lighthouse Project.
It will provide a knowledge hub, grow good governance, build capacity, and provide technological and administrative support for other community organisations.
"Many community groups and organisations face the same key challenges with regard to capacity and capability," says CLT Grants Manager Mat Begg, one of the key drivers behind the initiative.
"In 2021 a working group was established to collate these needs, have conversations around possible solutions, and investigate other models around New Zealand that have the same kaupapa (aim). This project is the result of all our findings and will be further developed and implemented over the next three years."
The Salvation Army received the biggest single handout, some $155k, to support its invaluable services for the region, where many are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and housing crunch.
Director of the Community Ministries in Queenstown Andrew Wilson, says the organisation is incredibly grateful for the funding.
"Times are tough across the region," he says. "Recovering from Covid is not so easy for some and it's The Salvation Army's mission to be there for those who need us most.
"Whether it's funding our community garden in Alexandra, our financial mentoring in Queenstown, our positive life programme in Wānaka and everything in-between, the Central Lakes Trust has been right there with us.
"It is through this support we can dynamically tailor our support to the ever-evolving landscape of our communities and for that, we say a big thank you!"
CLT Chief Executive Barbara Bridger says it is a privilege to collaborate with such a compassionate organisation.
Other grants include $50,000 to Uruuruwhenua Hauora to deliver programmes that meet Māori-specific needs throughout Central Otago, as well as $80,000 to Te Kura O Take Kārara for the further development of their shared outdoor playground.
