Last chance for SkyCity grants

The SKYCITY Auckland Community Trust annual funding round is closing soon and charitable organisations are urged to get in quick and apply for a 2008 grant.

Applications close on Friday March 28 2008, and SKYCITY Auckland Community Trust Chairperson, Jock Irvine, says the Trustees are looking for grassroots projects that focus on making a positive difference in the local community.

"The Trust is especially interested in receiving applications that focus on health, community welfare, arts, culture and entertainment.

"We support a range of projects - big and small - from the greater Auckland and Northland community."

Successful recipients will be notified in June 2008.

Since 2003 the SKYCITY Auckland Community Trust has donated more than $17.3 million to 930 community groups.

Highlights in last year's funding round include:
* $100,000 to the North Shore Hospital Foundation towards specialist equipment for the hospital's cardiac investigation and treatment service
* $25,000 to Bring it On towards sound and lighting hire for the high school based urban dance competition
* $21,000 to Lopdell House Society for new lighting system for the Waitakere Art Gallery
* $17,383 to the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education & Recreation Centre for the purchase of two new inflatable boats
* $11,880 to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to train a puppy for an Auckland recipient
* $4,000 to Computer Clubhouse Trust towards new chairs and training equipment for the Otara after school Computer programme
* $3,000 to Bailey Road School in Mt Wellington for the Books in Homes programme
* $1,900 to Age Concern Mid North for their 'Safe with Age' driving refresher courses.

For more information on how to apply go to www.skycityauckland.co.nz