Rotorua Trust has paid out just over $500,000 in operational grants this week. This was earlier than scheduled in a bid to help ease some of the pressures facing local community groups.
The funding, to 99 organisations across Rotorua, is part of the three year operational grants scheme approved last year – and supports organisations with a range of costs which are often difficult to get funding for, such as rent, electricity and insurances.
Rotorua Trust chairman Stewart Edward says the Trust decided to pay out this year’s grant slightly ahead of schedule due to the unprecedented situation the country is facing.
“We hope this payment will help reduce a bit of pressure on community groups’ operating budgets. The payment is the second tranche of three which were approved this time last year.”
Mr Edward says a key focus for the Trust over the past fortnight has been around making quick decisions to ensure organisations working in trying circumstances are able to make a meaningful difference.
“While our focus is on organisations that are making a difference right now, supporting our community through the isolation period, we haven’t forgotten the valuable work of the organisations unable to operate at the moment.
“We hope by bringing the operational grant payments forward, instead of worrying about the pressure of paying bills they’ll be able to focus on the important work they do supporting our community.”
All those who received funding were approved last year, with the three year funding providing a sense of security and a better ability to plan for the future.