In its first year, the Connecting Communities fund’s provided $180,000 to 185 community groups and not-for-profits across the region.
Introduced by Te Hau Toka South ern Lakes Wellbeing Group last year, the fund forms part of the efforts to combat the negative effects of Covid by supporting initiatives that improve mental wellbeing.
It’s made possible through govern ment funding — from the ‘Tourism Communities: Support, Recovery and Re-Set Plan’ fund — administered by Te Whatu Ora Southern, with the guidance of Te Hau Toka.
In the latest funding round, a total of $52,000 is being invested in 54 groups across the Southern Lakes to help with their initiatives, each receiving up to $1000 for community-led activities.
Whakatipu recipients include LUMA wellbeing workshops for schools, Happiness House gardening group materials, and Head Light Trust’s ‘Let’s Chalk about Mental Health Queenstown’ project.
Group chair Adell Cox (pictured) says she’s thrilled to see another surge of fresh ideas in the latest funding round, particularly from cultural groups across the region.
‘‘It’s wonderful to see different cultures focusing on how they can bring their communities together and support each other in a way that works uniquely for them.
‘‘But there are still common themes around celebrating diversity, welcoming newcomers to the region, forming stronger networks, and creating forums to openly discuss issues that affect their mental health and wellbeing.’’
The next funding round is from February 20 to March 2; eligible not-for-profit groups can apply for up to $1000, including GST, to support
community-focused mental wellbeing initiatives.
