The Manchester Unity Welfare Trust Board, which was previously known as the Manchester Unity Welfare Homes Trust Board, was originally founded in 1966 by the North Canterbury District of Manchester Unity Friendly Society and Age Concern Canterbury with assistance from the NZ Government and South Christchurch Rotary, to provide residential and hospital care for the elderly in Christchurch. This resulted in a very prominent care facility being established, known as George Manning House which still operates very successfully today.
However with the provision of numerous private facilities and Government subsidies for residential and hospital care, the necessity for the Manchester Unity Welfare Homes Trust Board to continue was greatly reduced and the facility was sold in 2006 resulting in a considerable Trust Fund.
A change to the original Trust Deed was permitted by order of the High Court and the objects along with the name were changed. This allowed The Manchester Unity Welfare Trust Board to invest funds in accordance with the Trustees Act 1956 and the income paid to such charities registered under the Charitable Trust Act 1957 or the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 and exempt from income tax by the Inland Revenue Department, to assist the ‘Elderly” in Christchurch and Canterbury.
Since providing financial support from 2011, Board Members have approved 90 grants from 27 Organisations with total funding (to date: 2019) of $1.62+ million, towards projects assisting the elderly.
Over the past five years, the Trust has generously provided grants for WesleyCare to install a recumbent bathing system, a flotation chair for palliative care residents and 12 months’ salary for a part-time Residents Role supporting older people in CMM’s community housing at Wesley Village.
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With a philosophy of supporting and caring for others, the Manchester Unity Welfare Trust Board has ensured better care for Canterbury’s elderly. Its support has assisted the purchase of specialised equipment like special beds and vans for transporting clients, and provision of services such as meals in homes
The Grant process commences in March each year with advertising in The Press in March/April. Applications close at the end of April.
The Board meets late May or early June to decide on the applications. Applicants are advised by the end of June
No. All applications must be from a qualified registered Organisation with the funding to support the “Elderly” in Christchurch and Canterbury.
Grants are generally paid in August with cheques presented during an evening function. However an early payment may be made should the Board consider the funds are required urgently.
The funding would cover the time period noted in the application, which generally would be within a year, however the Board will consider an extension if requested.
Yes. An Organisation applying for funding must be registered under the Charitable Trust Act 1957 or the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 and exempt from income tax.
No. All projects are to be priced GST exclusive
If you would like to apply for funding for your project helping the elderly, please fill in the form below, otherwise email us directly using the email address provided.