National Party MP Aaron Gilmore is pleased that community groups in Christchurch East are receiving ongoing support from National’s Community Response Fund.

“The successful applicants for the latest round of funding have just been announced, including three in the Christchurch East electorate,” says Mr Gilmore.

“A lot of people in Christchurch East have relied on these services during the difficult economic times we have faced recently, especially post the earthquakes.  At the same time, some local community organisations have struggled with funding.  National created this new funding to address these issues.

“In particular, it’s great that The Champion Centre, a special needs school based at Burwood Hospital which I visited last year, will receive $50,000 to help them meet increased demand.  They do a lot of amazing work under tough circumstances, and provide essential skills to remarkable young people who desperately need it.  Funds are also granted to the Agape Trust and the New Zealand Spinal Trust.

“The Fund was due to end, but we listened to communities who said it was still very much needed, and boosted the Fund with an extra $25 million in Budget 2011. This is on top of $55 million for the first six rounds.

“There have now been seven rounds of the Fund, supporting services like budgeting, family violence prevention, and helping families under stress in communities across New Zealand.

“It’s great that social services in Christchurch East have benefited.  As a National Party MP I will continue to advocate for funding to support our vital community groups and the fantastic work they do every day,” says Mr Gilmore.