MEDIA RELEASE

October 15 2015

Financial Help for flood victims now available

A final funding round is being held by the Manawatū-Wanganui Regional Disaster Relief Fund Trust to help people get back on their feet after the June storm.

The Trust has so far distributed more than $1 million to those in need thanks to the generous donations provided by central and local government as well as private individuals.

In the weeks immediately following the floods, assistance was initially provided for families needing essentials.

Trust chairman Eric Linklater says more recently, the Trust has focussed on assisting farmers in the region after receiving an $864,000 grant from the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Mr Linklater says applications for this money must meet the Ministry for Primary Industries criteria.

“We’ve given money for vital work like re-sowing pastures, hiring diggers and repairing fences”, Mr Linklater says.

Mr Linklater says he’s certain there are more people out there who have suffered damage or loss as a result of the storm but are yet to seek help.

“All applications must be made through their local authorities,” he says.

Applications close on November 6.

The Manawatū-Wanganui Regional Disaster Relief Fund Trust was set up 11 years ago. Administered by the Palmerston North City Council, the Trust is made up of representatives appointed by local authorities in the region.

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