More than $1m in grants made to Central Lakes community groups

Central Lakes Trust (CLT) has awarded 23 grants totalling $1,024,959 at its first board meeting for 2025.

“Many of our grantees are community-led initiatives,” trust chief executive Barbara Bridger says.

“It’s encouraging to see such a wide variety of organisations stepping up to address the needs and opportunities within our region.”

One of the recipients is Food for Love, which received $121,266 per annum towards operational costs from 2025 to 2028. 

Founded in 2016 by Rebecca Sarginson and Louise Carnie, Food For Love has delivered over 9,000 meals to people in need in 2024, and estimates 12,000 meals will go out in the coming year.

“As the Upper Clutha’s population continues to grow, so does the need for our services,” says Food For Love Wānaka general manager Jodie Stuart.

“Funding like this ensures we can meet increasing demand and continue supporting families and individuals during their times of need—whether they are recovering from illness, injury, or facing unexpected challenges.”

Another organisation that received funding this round is the Dunstan Community Whare Trust, which manages and maintains a whare for use by Māori, Central Otago Schools and the local community. 

The whare is a community asset that serves as a venue for hui, tangi, community meetings, wānanga, celebrations, and educational purposes.

DCWT received $174,317 towards the addition of a dining room and upgrading the existing kitchen.

CLT also granted $170,000 to Te Atamira to support the continuation of its community programmes.

"At Te Atamira, we see firsthand how creativity transforms lives,” says director Olivia Egerton says.

“Our free community programmes offer people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to explore their artistic potential, connect with others, and build confidence - not just in their creativity, but in themselves. Creativity strengthens resilience and well-being while also deepening our sense of place and belonging through shared experiences.”

Main image (Teresa Cotter): Food For Love volunteerTracey Pedersen, general manager Jodie Stuart and co-founder Bex Sarginson.