Mazda Foundation supports Bay of Plenty

Members of the Tauranga Youth Search and Rescue. Photo/File

A youth search and rescue organisation and an education facility in the Bay of Plenty were amongst 28 individuals, community groups and organisations which received much needed funding in the third and final round of Mazda Foundation grants for 2015.

The Foundation which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, donated more than $95,000 this round, making it their largest single funding round to date. Giving nearly $1.9 million back to the community since its inception.

Tauranga Youth Search and Rescue received $2,898 to purchase an emergency and rescue stretcher to be used by students and leaders in their training programme and real search and rescue operations when required.

Chairman Steve Campbell, said the organisation recruits and prepares young people for search and rescue whilst developing their love, respect and understanding for the New Zealand wilderness.

"Our objective is to develop students with valuable life skills and prepare them to assist local volunteer groups with the search and rescue of lost and injured persons within our community.

"Thanks to the grant from the Mazda Foundation students in our three year training programme will be able to use the new rigid, collapsible stretcher in simulated search and rescue exercises through steep terrain and dense native bush, helping to advance their rescue skills."

Another Bay of Plenty recipient Omanu School, were given $1,500 to purchase costumes for students taking part in the National Jump Jam final.

"Being part of the Jump Jam nationals is an amazing experience for all the children and will foster a spirit of teamanship that some of them would not otherwise experience," said teacher Barbara Laing.

"Costuming contributes towards the total points scored in the final. Thanks to the Mazda Foundation we can provide our children with costumes that are relevant to the routine and are of a high standard."

Andrew Clearwater, Chairman of the Mazda Foundation said they felt very fortunate being able to help so many deserving candidates across New Zealand.

"It has been 10 years since the Mazda Foundation began, and each and every round we are thrilled to see all the amazing acts of kindness taking place around the country.

"Whether it's helping out individuals in need or any other project that requires assistance, it's always rewarding to see how much hard work goes on in our communities," he said.

The Mazda Foundation is funded through a contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand.

The closing date for the next round of Mazda Foundation applications is 31 March 2016.

For more information or to download an application form, visit www.mazdafoundation.org.nz.