Council offering financial help to community groups

Not-for-profit groups working on projects and initiatives that help to connect and strengthen communities in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula may be able to get help with their costs.

Each year Christchurch City Council puts money aside in its Strengthening Communities Fund so that it can provide financial support to the many groups and organisations who are working to build community wellbeing.

This year there is nearly $7 million in the fund.

Just over half of that money will be distributed by the Council on a metropolitan basis. The remainder will be divvied up between the seven Community Boards, who will use the money to support projects and initiatives in their own areas.

“We are fortunate in Christchurch to have so many groups and organisations running programmes and projects that benefit our communities,’’ says Council Head of Community Support and Partnerships John Filsell.

“Getting enough funding can often be a struggle for these groups so the Strengthening Communities Fund allows us to support them in a very practical way,’’ Mr Filsell says. “Last year we supported more than 400 community-led projects or initiatives through the Fund.’’

Applications are now open for this year’s funding round. Groups have until Tuesday 26 April to put in their funding applications. They can apply for financial help for both operating costs and, or, project costs.

Operating costs may include salaries, power, rent, and administration costs. Project costs may include the cost of community programmes, events, activities and equipment.

“Funding decisions will be made in August and the successful applicants will receive their funding from 1 September,’’ Mr Filsell says.

“If you are part of a community-focused group and you need some financial help with the work you are doing, I would strongly encourage you to consider putting in a funding application.’’

Learn more about the Strengthening Communities Fund and how to apply for funding.