Applications now open for 2012 Skycity Queenstown Casino Community Trust

SKYCITY Queenstown Casino Community Trust is inviting local community groups and charity organisations in the Queenstown Lakes District area to submit applications for its 2012 annual funding round.

Now in its tenth year, the SKYCITY Queenstown Casino Community Trust has donated just over $997,000 to close to 300 charitable organisations and community groups since 2002.

“The Trust is delighted to have reached ten years of community funding.  It goes to show that we have a long term commitment to the Queenstown community, a region which we are very proud to operate in,” said Trust chairman Clark Pirie.         
Mr Pirie said the funding call was open to all Queenstown Lakes District community groups whose focus was on making a positive difference and who fitted the funding criteria.

Each year, the Trust calls for community groups to apply for funding for specific projects relating to education, arts, culture and entertainment, as well as projects that promote family financial security and wellbeing.

Last year, $95,809.24 was awarded to 39 community groups.  Among the many recipients last year was The Arrowtown and Lakes District 150th Celebrations Society which received funding for the printing of promotional material.  Queenstown Primary School Library also received funds for the purchase of iPads, and the Plunket Carseat Rental Scheme received funding for additional baby capsules and car seats.

SKYCITY Queenstown General Manager Michelle Baillie said the company was committed to supporting the community through its Community Trust and various sponsorships.

“We’re extremely proud we’ve been able to help nearly 300 community groups through the donation of almost one million dollars since 2002 and we look forward to helping more groups this year as we enter our tenth funding round.

“This funding can help ensure the ongoing provision of some excellent projects that really make a difference in the community,” she said.

Trustees of the Community Trust remain the same as last year with Clark Pirie as Chair, joined by Kim Wilkinson, Vicki Buckham and Kerry Harper.

Applications for funding are now open with the deadline for submissions Friday 27 July at 5pm. Applicants can fill out an online application form or download a form at www.skycityqueenstown.co.nz/Grants.

Funding by SKYCITY Queenstown Casino Community Trust will continue each year with applications sought every June.