High demand for support funding has Rural Women New Zealand reaching out for donations to ensure the organisation can continue meeting the needs of rural communities affected by adverse events.
Following the weather events in the first quarter of the year, the Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) fund set up to help those in rural communities after adverse events has been experiencing exceptionally high demand.
“We anticipated in February that our adverse events fund would experience high demand and that the response would be ongoing.
“This is certainly proving to be the case,” RWNZ president Gill Naylor said.
“We are very grateful for the support shown by our members, and the various groups that have fundraised for us, and the generosity of a private benefactor.
“Together this resulted in $70,000 in funds being collected year to date.
“This, combined with existing funds, means we have been well placed to assist,” Naylor said.
But the coffers could run dry.
Up to the start of May more than $50,000 in grants has been made to individuals, families and groups in the affected areas.
The majority of grants have been for $1000 and paid out in the past month.
More than 20 further applications are under consideration and requests for support are being received almost daily.
“We value our relationships with agencies such as Rural Support Trust and catchment group co-ordinators who are able to alert and refer those in need to this funding,” Naylor said.
For applicants who are working their way through complex insurance claims and processes for more significant funding, these grants provide speedy, timely support and are much appreciated.
“We receive feedback from grant recipients regularly.
“It is notable and humbling that their appreciation is not only for the financial assistance but also the boost of knowing that someone cares about their situation and is willing to help.
“We know that demand will be ongoing for some time, and we encourage those who are in a position to do so to donate to the fund knowing that it provides immediate, necessary assistance to individuals and families for costs not covered by insurance or other support.”
More information on how you can donate and how to apply to the fund can be found at: www.ruralwomennz.nz
