Forty-four community organisations within Hibiscus and Bays have been awarded a combined total of $293,855.81, courtesy of the recent disbursement from the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board’s grants programme.

This allocation marks the final round of funding for the current fiscal year, aimed at bolstering various community projects and endeavours.

According to Alexis Poppelbaum, Chair of the Board, the grants programme serves as a vital support system for groups and organisations dedicated to fostering positive community outcomes.

Poppelbaum expressed enthusiasm over the breadth and caliber of applications received during this round, highlighting the board's commitment to nurturing robust relationships with local entities to facilitate their prosperity.

"We are thrilled by the diversity and excellence evident in the applications this cycle," said Poppelbaum.

"Our objective is to cultivate partnerships with local groups and organisations, fostering an environment where they can flourish."

Poppelbaum further emphasised the board's preference for community groups that demonstrate collaborative efforts and have the capacity to attract additional funding, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience.

Notably, there was an influx of applications from new groups and organisations, a development lauded by Poppelbaum, particularly when these newcomers contribute to underserved segments of the community.

Among the recipients of the grants are 22 local organisations, receiving funding ranging from $651 to $10,000, primarily allocated to projects falling under the community, arts and culture, and environmental categories.

Noteworthy among the environmental grants is a $10,000 allocation to Te Herenga Waka o Orewa Marae, designated for the removal of an old, derelict tugboat from the Weiti River, posing a hazard to the local ecosystem.

In the community sector, the Youth In Transition Charitable Trust received $9,000 to support therapists and youth mentors in implementing The Journey Back to Awesome programme, which includes ongoing one-on-one counselling for at-risk youth.

Similarly, the Whangaparāoa Community Patrol secured $9,151.82 towards the procurement and installation of a surveillance camera system, to be monitored by the NZ Police, enhancing safety measures for Hibiscus Coast residents.

Additionally, the board approved nine multi-board grants, totalling $22,860, for projects spanning three or more local board areas.

Youthline Auckland Charitable Trust and The Garden to Table Trust were among the recipients, receiving support for volunteer supervision and the continuation of the Garden to Table Food Education Programme, respectively.

Furthermore, several grants, amounting to $188,026.08, were earmarked for facilities-related initiatives, with allocations ranging from $2,000 to $30,000.

Beneficiaries included prominent entities such as the Centrestage Theatre Company, Browns Bay Racquets Club, Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Club, Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, and the HBC Youth Centre, among others.

These grants reflect the board's dedication to fostering community growth and development, with a focus on diverse and impactful initiatives that align with the local board plan's objectives.

Through strategic funding allocations, the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board continues to empower and support its communities in achieving their collective goals.