Grants round opens

Applications are now open for the Community Connects grants which help fund projects that promote the inclusion and contribution of older people in community life.

Office for Seniors director Diane Turner said the grants are available to help communities prepare for an ageing population.

“We know that New Zealand’s population is ageing and we want to see older people being valued and able to contribute to and participate in their communities as they age,” she says.

“A recent evaluation of our three pilot age-friendly communities showed that communities need support getting started to either make a plan, or to put a plan into action.

“These grants will support this.”

The fund makes one-off grants of up to $15,000 as part of an annual budget of $100,000.

The October funding round is now open with applications closing on October 31.

The grants are open to any New Zealand council, community organisation, or registered non-profit organisation. All applications must be supported by their local council.

In the May funding round six groups were successful. Projects funded include developing resources for schools, engaging with communities to reduce social isolation and developing an Age-friendly community plan.

■ For more information on Community Connects, including the eligibility criteria and how to apply visit superseniors.msd.govt.nz