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Rodney District Council funding for a new community arts centre in Orewa has been matched by ASB Community Trust.

The Trust, which funds the work of not-for-profit groups throughout the region, has granted $100,000 toward the arts centre’s refurbishment of the new centre, formerly leased by the council to KFC.

The Arts Forum Incorporated (TAFI) plans to use the building for art classes, art competitions and exhibitions throughout the year. ASB Community Trust CEO Jennifer Gill says the project gained funds because of the strong community benefit it offers.

“It is intended that the centre will become a place for introducing new artists, supporting emerging artists, as well as providing a site for all arts interested members,” she says.

The Trust received letters of support for the project from the Hungry Creek Art and Craft Centre, Hospice Hibiscus Coast, Hibiscus Coast Artists Inc and the Rodney Community Arts Council.

Meanwhile, the Trust has also granted North Shore Brass $18,000 toward the cost of
Its instrument upgrade. Senior members of the band will be provided with higher quality instruments, while older instruments will be used in the band’s youth programme.

ASB Community Trust decides on grants for projects in education, the arts, sport, recreation, environment, heritage, health and social services areas each month. At their September meeting trustees approved $2.5 million worth of grants, part of the $55 million granted to community group projects in Auckland and Northland each year.

Founded on the sale of its shares in the ASB bank, the Trust has granted more than $500m since being formed in 1988. Any incorporated or charitable trust can apply for funds, provided they are a not-for-profit organisation.

For more details about applying, visit the Trust’s website: www.ASBCommunityTrust.org.nz. More information on The Arts Forum is at http://www.artsforum.org.nz/

ENDS

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