Money flows from new scheme

Money flows from new scheme

Nearly 50 community groups have already received cash support from WEL Energy Trust’s new Quick Response Grants scheme.

In March this year, the Trust announced it has set aside $400,000 over 12 months for a new programme to support grass-roots community projects. Up to $5000 at a time is available and usually only one grant can be received each year.

To date, 67 applications have been made with most successful applicants receiving funding within three weeks of applying. The Trust has anticipated more than 100 applications in its first year with two funding rounds remaining.

WEL Energy Trust chair Mark Ingle said he was pleased at the early uptake from groups that were often poorly resourced but did very good work in the community.

The Quick Response Grants scheme responded to funding applications within a short timeframe so WEL Trust could provide support “when groups need it most”, he said.

“The scheme is not designed for large capital projects or major operational grants. That kind of support is considered via our larger community support grants.”

More than $120,000 has already been distributed via Quick Response Grants to groups ranging from social service organisations to cultural associations and sports groups. *

WEL Energy Trust holds five Quick Response Grant allocations each year. The next round opens on October 1. Forms must be completed online at www.welenergytrust.co.nz.

In total, WEL Trust plans to distribute $2.65 million to the community in the 2015-16 year. The Trust will also continue to support WEL Networks in providing discounts to its customers via electricity bills.

ENDS

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