Community groups invited to apply for share of $75,000

25 July 2011

Calling all non-profit community organisations . . . . It is that time of year when you can apply for a share of Waipa District Council's $75,000 discretionary grants fund.

The fund is distributed on an annual basis by the district's community boards. The Cambridge Community Board (which includes the Maungatautari ward) and the Te Awamutu Community Board (which includes the Kakepuku ward) each have $30,000 to allocate, while the Pirongia Ward Consultative Committee, has $15,000 to distribute.

Last year there was 141 applications to the fund from a variety of groups including sports clubs, conservation organisations, volunteer social service groups, community event organisers and arts and cultural groups.

Community liaison officer Andrea Duncan said the funds were available to support the general objectives of groups that promoted community well-being and could be used for such things as operating expenses, minor repairs and maintenance or small event costs.

Applicants must be non-profit organisations providing a community or welfare service for the benefit of the wider community. Grants generally range between $200 and $2000.

Ms Duncan said while the official closing date was August 31 it was helpful for groups to get their applications in early as further information or clarification could be needed before the closing date.

Application forms are available from the council offices or can be downloaded from www.waipadc.govt.nz under About our services - Community and Recreation'.

Funding is allocated by both community boards in September and by the Pirongia Consultative Committee in October.