Community Set to Benefit from Charity House Funds
Friday, 18 Aug 2023
The Rotorua community is once again set to benefit from initiatives that have received cash injections from the Toi Ohomai Charity House Project.
The 2022 Charity House was sold earlier this year, with a profit of $30,000 which was available to charities and community organisations.
Nine charities have received funding including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Aratika Cancer Trust, who were celebrated at a presentation event held at Toi Ohomai.
Tumu Whenua ā-Rohe 2 | Executive Director Region 2, Kieran Hewitson, acknowledged the project partners, without whom, this project would not be possible.
“The build of this house not only helps students gain hands-on experience but contributes to the community.”
She said funding was given to wide-reaching community groups, which offered a range of services and community initiatives.
“It’s great to be able to support our community in this way. This project not only provides our ākonga with key skills to become work ready, but it also provides a sense of community pride.”
Kieran also extended a mihi to the purchasers of this year’s house, as this would not be possible without them.
The purchasers were unable to attend the function but they acknowledged everyone who was part of this project.
“We feel privileged to have been fortunate enough to purchase the latest Charity Home after being unsuccessful in our bid the previous year.
“The project is a fantastic venture that brings students, suppliers, education providers and the community together to work for a great cause in supporting our community.
“We look forward to hearing how the funds are distributed to our local community to support organisations making Rotorua the great place it is to work, live and play.”
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell spoke at the event and thanked the recipients for the work they do in the community.
The Charity House Project, which has been running since 2013, sees Toi Ohomai carpentry students build a home with support from industry partners.
Professionals McDowell Real Estate has been on board since the project’s inception, using their expertise to market and sell the property, and the money raised is given to Rotary Rotorua Sunrise Charitable Trust to distribute throughout the community.
This grassroots project brings together carpentry and electrical students with local tradespeople and suppliers in partnership for the community.
2023 Recipients:
Aratika Cancer Trust
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rotorua
Graeme Dingle Foundation
Older Persons Community Centre
Swim Able NZ Charitable Trust
St Chads
Rotorua Symphonic Band
Rotorua & Districts MS Society Inc
Equisucceed