Grace St Project: Government fund provides $500k boost
Chair of The Grace Street Project Janette Malcolm said receiving this funding through a government level programme was national recognition of the initiative.
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The Grace Street Project has received a $500,000 investment from central government, allocated as part of the Southland Just Transition package setup in 2022.
The Southland Just Transition work plan has seen iwi, businesses, education, and community leaders come together to ensure Southland’s future is positive, and to help Southland build its economic, environmental and social resilience and security regardless of the fate of New Zealand Aluminium Smelter (NZAS).
The Grace Street Project was able to attract the central government investment through the ‘community capability building’ work stream.
The Invercargill Community Connections Charitable Trust (IC2) officially launched The Grace Street Project last year after securing ownership of the former Grace St Chapel building.
The over $4 million project will include renovating, rebuilding, and modernising the existing building to create a multi-purpose facility for south Invercargill.
Former Co-Chair of the Southland Just Transition programme Neil McAra said: “The Grace Street Project is a valuable project with its focus on building capability and pathways into employment, and community resilience.”
Aimee Kaio - the other former Co-Chair of the Southland Transition programme - said: “It’s great to know this funding is going to provide support for learning, social connection and enhance overall community wellbeing.”
“It’s hugely satisfying to see such a collaborative and refined plan coming from the people of Southland for what their future looks like,” Kaio said.
Chair of The Grace Street Project Janette Malcolm said receiving this funding through a government level programme was national recognition of the initiative.
“We a delighted to have met the conditions required to receive the $500,000 grant. We know this project is going to provide so many opportunities to the residents in south Invercargill but this investment also recognises our belief that The Grace Street Project will have an impact on the whole Southland region.”