Media release
6 October 2009

Te Kuiti benefits from Lion Foundation generosity

Waitomo locals have 600,000 reasons to celebrate thanks to the support of The Lion Foundation.

Over the past two and a half years funds raised through the charitable trust’s gaming venue at the Te Kuiti Hotel has seen more than $600,000 distributed back to the local community.

These funds have been for a range of arts, cultural, sporting, educational and health focused causes, from $2,000 for the purchase of goalie gear for the Pio Pio Hockey Club Inc to $30,000 towards the running of the Royal NZ Plunket Society‘s local car seat rental scheme.

Other local causes who have benefitted include Te Kuiti Youth Centre who received a $10,000 grant towards the lease of its premises; $11,000 for uniforms, gear bags, equipment and travel for Maniapoto Netball Association; and a $15,000 grant to Te Piruru Papakainga Marae towards its building improvement costs.

Operating for over 20 years and one of the country’s most widely respected community trusts, The Lion Foundation Chief Executive Phil Holden says the charitable trust is proud to support the wider Te Kuiti community.

“There are a number of local groups who provide services that benefit this community. We are proud to support these causes and applaud those involved.”

Further examples of such causes include the recent $5,000 grant for Waitomo Support Centre’s purchase of food for families in need, and $6,000 for the purchase and installation of drinking fountains at Centennial Park School.

Mr Holden adds: “Te Kuiti is a beautiful part of the country with people who are committed to their local area. We are look forward to continuing to support these people and organisations, with funds generated at the Te Kuiti Hotel, and help them make a positive difference in the community.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media