Three local organisations and one individual will benefit from the Wānaka A&P Foundation’s inaugural funding round.

The foundation was established earlier this year by the Upper Clutha A&P Society to help support the local rural sector.

A statement from the foundation said it was “proud to announce the recipients of our first round of grants, totalling $25,000”.

Recipients include the Upper Clutha Wilding Tree Group ($10,000), a community non-profit aiming to tackle the spread of exotic wilding trees, and the Upper Clutha Children’s Medical Trust ($5,000), which helps families access crucial medical care.

WAI Wānaka, on behalf of Te Kura O Titea Mount Aspiring College (MAC), was also granted $5,000, which will support MAC’s sustainability curriculum in term one next year.

Lastly, local resident Matt Walker received $5,000 to help fund his participation in the Rabobank Executive Development Programme, which offers ‘practical and strategic education for leaders in agriculture’. 

The first three recipients received support from foundation’s rural development and wellbeing grants - for groups focused on contributing to rural development and well-being. 

The last was the capability development grant, designed to support community members in leadership roles with further career development.

“This support reflects our commitment to meaningful initiatives,” the Wānaka A&P Foundation said.

“Congratulations to all our recipients. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts of their projects.”

Find more information about the grants here.

PHOTO: Supplied