New car sales boost good causes

The Mazda Foundation has dished out more than $160,000 in the past year to help make a difference to groups and individuals around the country.

There were 61 recipients of grants in 2020 from the foundation, which was established in 2005 and is funded through a contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand.

Among the latest beneficiaries was the Sailability Northland Trust, which received funding to purchase boat covers to help protect its two specialised yachts. 

The trust provides opportunities for physically disabled young people and adults to learn to sail or experience being on a sailing boat through tuition and “Have a Go” days.

Nga Rangatahi Toa, a Creative Youth Development organisation that uses creative arts and wellbeing programmes to help connect rangatahi with their purpose and to imagine a positive future for themselves, also received cash in the latest round of grants.

It plans to use the money to purchase musical instruments to engage vulnerable young Maori and Pasifika in projects that combine creative exploration with youth development strategies.

The Mazda Foundation runs three funding rounds to help Kiwis in need each year, with more than $3.8 million being gifted back to the community since its inception.

David Hodge, chairman, says 2020 was a challenging year for many and he’s proud of the difference the Mazda Foundation has made.

“In a time where people’s mental health and wellbeing is a key focus, organisations like Sailability Northland Trust and Nga Rangatahi Toa are working to support the most vulnerable in our community and we hope these grants will help them continue this very important work,” he explains.

Details on the latest recipients of grants can be found at mazdafoundation.org.nz/grant-recipients

The closing date for the next round of foundation applications is March 31, 2021. For more information or to apply, visit www.mazdafoundation.org.nz.