Nikki Kaye

MP for Auckland Central

22 December 2009

Funding boost for Auckland social services

Auckland Central will benefit from a funding boost for five local social services organisations.

The National-led Government has announced the recipients of the second round of the Community Response Fund, which has granted almost $11 million to 184 community groups around the country.

It has been a very tough year for some local social services groups, who are critical to our communities.

I hope this funding offers a welcome relief as we know some of them are struggling to keep up with demand.

We want them to concentrate on supporting families and organisations, not having to turn people away, or worry about whether they can keep their doors open.

The total number of groups funded through the initiative is now 344, including the National Collective of Women’s Refuges.

The fund was established in May as a response to the economic downturn. It assists those groups providing vital social services which are under severe financial strain or experiencing increased demand.

Up to $104 million is being made available over two years.

Auckland Central organisations have received $274,000, which will make a huge difference to the groups dealing with the day to day impact of the economic downturn.

Groups such as Auckland City Mission and Auckland Refugee Council are vital to our community, and I’m really pleased that this initiative is supporting these services through the recession.

Auckland Central groups that have received funding in the second round are:

Auckland City Mission
Catholic Family and Community Services Kelmarna Centre (Ponsonby)
Youthline Auckland Charitable Trust
Auckland Refugee Council Inc
Grey Lynn Community Trust

I recognise Christmas can be a really demanding time for these groups and the families they help.

I look forward to continuing to work with the many social service providers and community groups that help so many Aucklanders.

ENDS

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