Rātā Foundation, the South Island’s largest community investment fund, has allocated $510,293 to 43 community groups in Canterbury in its latest funding round.

The grants, to be used over the next 12 months, support a diverse range of organisations, including those focused on music, arts, sports, mental health, migrants, children, and new mothers.

The funding includes $5,000 for the Afghan Women’s Group, $30,000 for the Cantabrainers Therapeutic Choir, $25,000 for the Linwood Rugby Club, and $20,000 for groups like Project Lyttelton and Te Kupenga O Aranui.

Other recipients include the Canterbury Down Syndrome Association ($15,000) and the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust ($19,500).

Additionally, Rātā awarded $100,800 for multi-region projects benefiting organizations like Autism New Zealand ($10,000) and Garden to Table Trust ($15,000) across Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, and the Chatham Islands.

Chief Executive Leighton Evans said the funding aims to reduce barriers and empower communities, supporting initiatives in health, education, housing, and the environment.

Managing a $700 million fund, Rātā invests around $25 million annually across its regions. Since 1988, it has distributed over $550 million to foster thriving communities.

This round is one of eight annual distributions, with four reserved for multi-year and strategic grants. \