Big share of grants for Northland
NEWS RELEASE
Big share of grants for Northland
Almost a quarter of ASB Community Trust’s $67.6 million grants budget was spent in Northland last year, the Trust’s annual report shows.
The figure was pushed up by major grants to two Far North projects - $3 million for Kaitaia’s multi-purpose Te Ahu facility and $5 million for Waitangi National Trust’s new visitor centre.
In total just over $16 million went to Far North applications, including grants such as $158,000 to Sport Northland and $81,000 for extensions to the Te Kao health clinic, through to $11,000 for Whangarei CAB and $1000 to the Dargaville Girls Brigade.
CEO Jennifer Gill says the $67.6 million total grants budget was the result of an “extraordinary” investment return in 2006 – when the Trust made 20.8% – leaving it with a big surplus. Since then a tougher investment market has seen an investment return of 8.8%, so the grants budget for 2008 will return to its historical average of $45 million.
The Trust will be reporting back on its results at its annual public meeting, to be held at Te Whakamaharatanga marae, in the Hokianga, on Saturday, September 29. The marae is just off State Highway 12, south of Omapere.
The event begins with a powhiri at 11am. After the presentation of the Trust’s annual report, grants advisors and Trustees will lead a workshop on the application process. This will help groups understand the Trust’s priorities and what it funds. More information is online at www.ASBCommunityTrust.org.nz. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to info@ASBCommunityTrust.org.nz
About ASB Community Trust
ASB Community Trust decides on grants for groups and projects in Auckland and Northland each month. Using funds from the sale of its shareholding in the Auckland Savings Bank, the Trust has granted more than $600m since being formed in 1988.
Any incorporated or charitable trust in Auckland and Northland 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
ENDS