Grant supports vital work in the community helping those with dementia
With an ageing population and more people predicted to be living with dementia (mate wareware), the work Alzheimers Whanganui does is more important now than ever, says manager Renee Clark.
A grant from the TG Macarthy Trust, administered by Public Trust, provided vital funding to support Alzheimers Whanganui social outings programme. It’s designed for people living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment to connect, enjoy social time with others, and experience new places in a safe and supportive environment with trained staff.
“The programme isn't just about the outings, it's about restoring connection, dignity and support for people living with dementia and their carers,” Clark says.
The group meet fortnightly and visit places like the museum, botanical gardens, and a farm trip. And it’s not just elderly people too – increasingly people are presenting with early-onset dementia, Clark says.
“Participants often tell us how much they enjoy the chance to get out and to socialise, and to feel part of the community. People say it lifts their spirits and helps them feel connected to others in the community.”
Diversional Therapist Fiona Allison, who organises and facilitates the group trips, explains during a recent outing to nearby Turakina Beach, one of the women on the trip became emotional.
Allison explains: “I offered lots of TLC and asked her why she was emotional. She responded saying, ‘I feel lonely living on my own and these outings with everyone I really look forward to.”
The outings provide essential respite for carers too, Clark says.
“Our outings are regular and consistent, so it allows the carers to plan ahead of time what their much-needed respite could look like.”
Clark admits that although they’re committed to supporting the increasing need, she’s concerned about how the increased numbers of people living with dementia will affect their organisation’s capacity to support people.
“It’s a huge concern for us and something we actively think about and talk about. As the population ages and diagnoses increase, the pressure on services like ours will grow significantly.
“The predicted increase in dementia in New Zealand is significant. It reflects what we are already starting to see locally here. As the population ages, more families are going to be facing the reality of dementia and they need support, guidance and understanding on their journey. Our work will only become more essential as more people are impacted.”
Grant empowers lasting impact in community
With limited government funding, most income comes from grants, donations and bequests, says Clark.
“We were incredibly grateful and excited to receive this grant from the TG Macarthy Trust. It gives us confidence and motivation to keep doing what we are doing. Without these grants, we wouldn’t be here doing what we do.”
The trust Wellington benefactor Thomas George Macarthy established continues to have a “powerful impact on communities like ours,” Clark says.
“His legacy reminds me of how one person’s commitment can create lasting positive change – and how vital a will can be. Wills are more than just legal formalities – gifts in wills are really powerful ways for individuals to make a real, lasting impact in their community,” she says.
From local kōhanga reo to charities and community-driven initiatives, charitable trusts shape the heart of Aotearoa. Through grants and scholarships, these trusts empower future generations—strengthening education, protecting our environment, supporting causes that uplift whānau, and preserving the richness of our culture long into the future.
As one of New Zealand’s largest charitable trust administrators, Public Trust proudly supports over 430 trusts in distributing funds back into our communities.