Media release: Support for community projects combating food security in Northland Kai Ora Fund 2024 applications now open
Mahitahi Hauora is pleased to announce that Northland’s successful sustainable kai initiative, the Kai Ora Fund, is now open for 2024 applications.
The Kai Ora Fund supports community-led initiatives that increase the availability of healthy kai, address food security, and improve community resilience with grants of up to $5,000 as well as offering project support.
Since it began in 2015, the Kai Ora Fund has supported nearly 300 grassroots projects, and issued over $500,000 in funding. In 2023, 31 community projects across Te Tai Tokerau received over $100k to support initiatives including māra kai for marae, projects on whenua Māori, community gardens, as well as education and capacity-building workshops to help people grow fresh food.
“We support projects across the rohe, from Cape Reinga to Kaiwaka, and in locations ranging from suburban Whangārei to remote rural areas,” says Erana Peita, Mental Health and Kai Ora Fund Coordinator at Mahitahi Hauora Primary Health Entity, which administers the fund.
The Kai Ora Fund is a collaborative multi-sector initiative comprising Mahitahi Hauora, Te Puni Kōkiri, Far North District Council, Whangārei District Council, Kaipara District Council, the Ministry of Social Development, Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities, and Te Tari Taiwhenua (Department of Internal Affairs).
Community groups, whānau trusts, social enterprises, and small businesses are invited to apply and support is available to help people with the application process“Successful applications engage multiple partners, show collaboration with hapu and iwi, promote equity, and demonstrate sustainability”, says Erana.
The closing date for applications is 12pm on 6th of February 2024 .
