The New Zealand Government has announced an additional contribution of $500,000 to the Post Your Support initiative, a community fundraising campaign aimed at helping farmers and growers most affected by extreme weather events this year.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor highlighted the challenging conditions faced by farmers and growers in the North Island due to adverse weather events earlier this year.
“It’s been an extremely challenging start to the year for farmers and growers affected by the adverse weather events in the North Island and this funding is about getting in behind our rural communities as they rebuild,” O’Connor said.
The government had previously provided $100,000 to initiate this project, and the latest funding will ensure the repair and replacement of essential infrastructure like fences and growing structures.
O’Connor emphasized the government's ongoing support for primary producers affected by cyclones, including $74 million in recovery grants, the North Island Weather Events Loan Guarantee Scheme, and the Primary Producer Finance Scheme. This additional contribution to the Post Your Support campaign is part of the $35.4 million budget allocation for the recovery of rural communities affected by recent weather events in the North Island.
In addition to this initiative, the government has also responded to the adverse wet conditions in the Bay of Plenty region by providing an extra $50,000 for support.
Rural Communities Minister Kieran McAnulty stated that the funding would aid the Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust in delivering essential services to those in need.
The Rural Support Trust offers various services, including mentoring, mental health outreach, and community events. This additional funding will enable them to provide assistance to farmers experiencing difficulties.
More information on how farmers and growers can apply, how members of the public can donate and more can be found here.
