The Council has approved over $350,000 in grants to projects and organisations that reflect the diversity of the capital, and will contribute to building a stronger, more resilient, creative and vibrant environment for everyone in our community.

The grants subcommittee recently allocated a total of $368,826 to 66 projects through the Arts & Culture, Social & Recreation, and the Natural Environment Funds.

Two grants allocated $45,000 each for organisations providing emergency accommodation for women: the Wellington Homeless Women’s Trust and Wellington Women’s House – both of which provide low-cost accommodation and wrap-around tenancy support for women.

Social Development portfolio lead Councillor Brian Dawson says this funding aligns with the fundamentals of our Te Mahana strategy – housing is a basic human right.

“Both of these services, along with the Wellington Night Shelter which we also help fund, have been supported through additional funding agreed through the Long-term Plan for emergency and transitional housing. They both provide beds for homeless women, one of the key outcomes of our Te Mahana strategy.”

Grants subcommittee chair, Councillor Sarah Free, says the grants all make a positive contribution to the capital.

“Investing in our people, arts and culture, and the environment improves our way of life, engages members from a wide range of communities, builds on our creative identity, and protects our natural environment for future generations.

“Grant funding is targeted to support Council’s strategic direction for the city, and is leveraged by contributions from other partners and volunteers-giving excellent value for the amount spent,” adds Councillor Free.

• Arts & Culture Fund: 31 grants for projects totalling $128,400
• Social & Recreation Fund: 28 grants totalling $202,426
• Natural Environment Fund: 7 grants for projects totalling $38,000

The next closing date for these Council funds will be 31 October 2018, for projects starting after 5 December 2018.

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