Local Community Groups Supported through Grassroots Giving

A total of thirty-eight community groups working across Auckland have received a financial boost, thanks to the Grassroots Giving Programme.

Part of the Auckland Foundation’s annual granting, the programme is enabled by the generosity of the Tindall Foundation and supports specific initiatives, such as youth development, literacy and numeracy, and migrant and refugee services.

Auckland Foundation CEO, Dellwyn Stuart says, “Grassroots organisations are the glue that binds our communities. These aren’t the big glamorous charities, but often local people who have seen an opportunity to make a difference and are making it happen. It is exactly these types of organisations that the Grassroots Giving Programme is seeking to support, and give a hand up to.”

“The Grassroots Giving Programme is also an opportunity for us as grantmakers to see where there are emerging community needs, and where there is still work to be done.”

“A key area that stood out for us this year is the continued need to tackle the issues of violence and poverty, and to support our youth and refugee and migrant communities. There are organisations out there striving to make inter-generational change, and it’s wonderful that we’re able to support them.”

One organisation working to help change the lives of young people is Heart for Youth (H4Y) Trust. Based in Beach Haven, Heart for Youth support marginalised and at-risk youth and young adults regardless of their background. Awarded a grant last year, they were once again successful in being awarded a grant thanks to the positive impact they’re having in the community.

Founding Director Ross McCook says,

“As a fledgling organisation, we are incredibly grateful to the Grassroots Giving Programme for seeing the positive potential of our organisation to impact and support at-risk youth.”

“One of the biggest problems we see facing young people in our communities today is the absence of caring adult role models and mentors. But thanks to our Grassroots Giving funding, that’s exactly what we have been able to do – support young people, with outstanding results. We have been able to support over 30 vulnerable young people by recruiting and training adult volunteer mentors from the community. The results have been life-changing for all of our youth and young adults in our mentoring programme.”

“We’re incredibly thankful to the Grassroots Giving Programme, and look forward to a bright future as a result of the generosity of The Tindall Foundation.”

Another group who have received funding support is BabyStart, a new charity that provides care packages to vulnerable families with newborns. Based on the Finnish baby box concept, each package contains approximately 40 baby clothing and care items, while the box is fitted with a mattress to enable it to be used as a bassinet.

Trustee Philip Horrobin says, “As a newly established charity, the grant from the Grassroots Giving Programme has been a huge boost to our work in Auckland. Around 30 babies and their families will benefit directly from this grant. Through our network of midwives we’ll be able to provide them with everything they need to stay warm and safe for their first 100 days.”

“We're excited to be able to provide midwives with a tool that will help them form stronger bonds with families that may often be hesitant to engage with the healthcare system. The Auckland and Tindall Foundations have made a real difference to some of Auckland’s most challenged families.”

The Grassroots Giving Programme will open again for applications in 2018. Details on how to apply will be made available on the Auckland Foundation websitewww.aucklandfoundation.org.nz.

ENDS

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