MAS Foundation Grants

2024–2025

MAS Foundation Community Koha

Visible Difference Aotearoa

Visible Difference Aotearoa, established in October 2023, is dedicated to supporting individuals with facial differences by providing community support, education, advocacy and positive exposure. The initiative aims to improve health and wellbeing equity by addressing the unique challenges faced by those with facial differences, particularly focusing on Māori and Pasifika communities. The funding will aid in building the charity's foundation, developing an online presence, and fostering collaboration with other organisations. By promoting holistic and culturally appropriate care, Visible Difference strives to enhance the quality of life for individuals with visible differences in New Zealand.

Total Amount$25,000

2024–2025

MAS Foundation Partnership Grants

Māia Collective

Māia Collective is a kaupapa Māori organisation dedicated to addressing systemic and intergenerational inequalities faced by Māori and Pacific communities. Their Āwhinatanga programme, a strengths-based tuakana/teina mentoring initiative, enhances the mental, spiritual, physical and social wellbeing of indigenous wāhine. This program has already impacted 173 wāhine and their communities, leading to the creation of additional programmes. The funding will support the programme's sustainability by covering staffing, program costs and professional development over 2 years. This will enable the expansion of volunteer training and the delivery of the Āwhinatanga program to 60–80 wāhine, ensuring ongoing relevance and effectiveness. The initiative aligns with MAS Foundation's priorities by promoting Pro-Te Tiriti and Pro-Equity principles, fostering systemic change and supporting community-led, sustainable development.

Total Amount$100,000

Health Coalition Aotearoa (HCA)

Health Coalition Aotearoa (HCA) is dedicated to advancing health equity through evidence-based public health interventions. Their work involves engaging communities, government, opposition parties and various sectors, to advocate for health-promoting policies. The funding will sustain HCA's efforts by supporting their expert advisory panels in national advocacy, ensuring they can continue to influence policy and promote systemic improvements in public health across New Zealand.

Total Amount$40,000

Pēpi Penapena

Pēpi Penapena’s mission aims to empower whānau with mātauranga to raise happy, loved and strong pēpi and tamariki across Aotearoa New Zealand. This funding will support the development of a groundbreaking digital storytelling and archive platform, including a new website and robust marketing strategy. The platform will enable Pēpi Penapena to share the gentle and respectful parenting practices of tūpuna Māori, making mātauranga accessible through enriched video content and optimised user experiences. This initiative aligns closely with MAS Foundation's commitment to supporting initiatives that uphold Te Tiriti principles, promote equity through culturally appropriate practices, and utilise digital platforms to enhance community wellbeing.

Total Amount$100,000

Te Manawahoukura/Te Wānanga o Aotearoa

Te Manawahoukura/Te Wānanga o Aotearoa specialises in developing educational programmes rooted in Māori culture and values, emphasising reo Māori and mātauranga Māori to support learning and wellbeing within Māori communities. This funding supports Āio Pīpī, an initiative aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing equity by piloting a reo Māori/bilingual wellbeing programme in Māori-medium school communities. Named after the concept of true balance, Āio Pīpī addresses mental health crises and the scarcity of te reo Māori resources, integrating holistic wellbeing approaches grounded in cultural practices and knowledge. This initiative aligns with MAS Foundation's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, equity, and nurturing a kaupapa Māori hauora workforce, ultimately advancing health outcomes for Māori communities.

Total Amount$315,338

Taku Mamia Trust

Taku Mamia Trust is a community-based organisation in Waipatu, Hastings, dedicated to enhancing maternal and child health outcomes within Māori communities through culturally grounded initiatives. This funding will support the launch of the 'Ara' programme titled Tākuta Tamaiti, aimed at meeting the needs and aspirations of māmā through culturally-grounded support across the perinatal and early years continuum at their marae in Waipatu, Hastings. The initiative includes services informed by mātauranga Māori and covers expenses for a Lead Facilitator (Māori Cultural Therapist), a part-time paediatrician and necessary programme costs. This initiative closely aligns with MAS Foundation’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, equity and building a kaupapa Māori hauora workforce, contributing significantly to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for whānau.

Total Amount$272,000

Poutu Pasifika

This funding will support Poutu Pasifika in its transition from HELP (Auckland Sexual Abuse HELP Foundation) to becoming an independent legal entity. As the only Pacific-led organisation providing culturally appropriate sexual violence services in Tamaki Makaurau, Poutu Pasifika is uniquely positioned to continue its vital work. The 1-year partnership grant will be used to establish the organisation by employing a key administrator who will oversee governance, marketing, community collaboration, and securing further funding. This support aligns with MAS Foundation's values of empowerment, equity, and culturally tailored interventions, ensuring that Poutu Pasifika can successfully fulfil its mission as an independent entity.

Total Amount$88,250

Te Reitaki Trust

Te Reitaki Trust is a Kiribati charitable trust based in Tamaki Makaurau. Te Reitaki Trust, dedicated to supporting the Kiribati community in Aotearoa New Zealand, works to preserve cultural identity while fostering self-reliance and collaboration among its members. This 2-year partnership grant will enhance the trust's organisational capacity by supporting the development of a custom-designed website, providing governance training for trustees, and funding a part-time coordinator to streamline administrative processes and maintain community relationships. This initiative aligns with MAS Foundation's commitment to improving health and wellbeing equity for smaller Pacific communities.

Total Amount$73,691

2023–2024

MAS Foundation Community Koha

Te Oranga Ki Ōtakou

Te Oranga Ki Ōtako (TOKO) is dedicated to creating a home away from home for tauira, emphasizing learning opportunities to instil a deep understanding of Māori identity. Our Te Reo Kia Ora initiative focuses on health equity, offering an 8-session Māori language health program to support Māori tauira in health professional programs. The funding will drive efforts to normalize Te Reo Māori use in clinical settings, fostering cultural redress and behavioral change within the health system.

Total Amount$5,000

Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Trust

Ngā Waihua o Paerangi, an iwi-led entity, focused on environmental monitoring, health, social services, Whānau Ora, jobs for nature, housing repairs, and the Whiria Ngā Hua initiative. Responding to the loss of over 850 jobs, Whiria Ngā Hua invests in local families, serving as a vehicle for whānau aspirations. This funding supported the Anei Tata E! symposium hosted by Ngāti Rangi in Ohakune 26 to 27 September 2023. A celebration of iwi success, the symposium fostered collaboration, learning, innovation, and shared leadership for wellbeing, featuring keynote speakers, many from Ngāti Rangi, that empowered the community to believe in their own potential.

Total Amount$25,000

Te Kurahuna

As the kaitiaki of Mahi a Atua, Te Kurahuna specialises in both the initial training, and the ongoing professional and personal development of the Mataora workforce. This funding will help to develop a proposal for government agency funding for the delivery of the unique Niwareka training informed by mātauranga Māori. The training will be delivered to 100 nursing and non-regulated health kaimahi. Funding will also be used for evaluation and research to investigate the barriers preventing Te Kurahuna from contributing to workforce capability and capacity building in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Total Amount$25,000

Te Atawhai o Te Ao Charitable Trust (Māori Coalition – FASD Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder)

Te Atawhai o Te Ao stands as an independent Māori research institute specialising in environment and health. Māori Coalition – FASD Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder wānanga is dedicated to the Maui tamariki, the individuals who inspire and challenge us as parents, grandparents, and whānau whānui. We delve into our own mātauranga and whānau experiences, exploring ways to support Maui tamariki, rangatahi, pakeke, and their overall whānau ora. This discussion embraces the joy, creativity, and the spirit of exploration and innovation inherent in haututū. Drawing inspiration from whakapapa and kōrero, we reflect on the stories of explorers, innovators, and those who encourage us to create new ways of doing things.

Total Amount$25,000

Kahoa Tauleva Trust

Kahoa Tauleva Trust aims to alleviate poverty, advance education, and benefit the community through job creation, financial literacy, educational support, and cultural/spiritual growth. In collaboration with Dr Janet Tupou, the project involves a developmental evaluation using The Kakala Model, focusing on the 3-phase Community Cabins Pilot to address overcrowded homes in Aotearoa. This initiative, aligned with Pacific Aotearoa Lalaga Fou Report goals, promises key insights for future policies, supporting thriving cultures, prosperous communities, resilient Pacific Peoples, and confident, thriving young people.

Total Amount$22,000

Te Uranga o Te Rā Regional Waka Ama Association (Te Uranga)

Te Uranga o Te Rā Regional Waka Ama Association (Te Uranga), represents clubs across Te Tai Rāwhiti, including Gisborne, East Coast, Opotiki, and Hastings. Te Uranga fosters health and wellbeing equity by promoting community, physical activity, and resilience, particularly in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. The $25,000 Community Koha funding will support the 2024 Long-Distance Waka Ama Nationals in Gisborne, helping to reduce financial barriers, foster collaboration among clubs, and engage the wider community. This initiative aims to revitalise waka ama in Te Tai Rāwhiti, strengthening community ties and promoting overall wellbeing

Total Amount$25,000

Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ)

Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ) aims to improve health and wellbeing equity through strategic leadership and advocacy rooted in Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. With extensive experience in education and iwi development, the organisation focuses on promoting equitable health outcomes. The funding supported PHANZ's first national conference in 3 years, which emphasised equity, systems-thinking, and professional development to enhance the health sector's ability to address public health priorities. The event features prominent speakers and aims to improve population health and wellbeing for all New Zealanders.

Total Amount$5,000

2023–2024

MAS Foundation Partnership Grants

Hikurangi Enterprise Limited

Hikurangi Enterprises Limited’s vision is ‘healthy wealthy whānau and whenua’. The purpose of the Whare Ora initiative is to provide healthy, affordable and accessible housing solutions to local residents in Te Tairawhiti. It is a Kaupapa Māori circular housing model that includes local economic development and self-determination for Māori, leading climate responses. This funding will be used for an evaluation framework to support the holistic value created by Whare Ora to enable other Māori communities to apply the model, and to get local buy-in. The funding will also be used to support organisational infrastructure, building capability, and community engagement and development.

Total Amount$100,000

Te Roopu Waiora Trust: Tangata Turi Aotearoa

Established in 2001, Te Roopu Waiora is a unique Māori organisation governed by whānau hauā, dedicated to providing essential information and services to whānau with disabilities and their communities. Tāngata Turi sought funding for a national Māori deaf hui in July 2023 to create a collective forum for unity, leadership strengthening, and community planning. The event aimed to enhance understanding of Te Ao Māori, improve engagement with health services, and inform government agencies about the needs and solutions of Tāngata Turi.

Total Amount$50,000

The Tongan Society South Canterbury Inc

The Tongan Society South Canterbury Inc empowers the local Tongan community through cultural programs and workshops, including the Youth Fale for Pasifika youth and family-centered initiatives. MAS Foundation supports their Re-KAVA-Ring programme by providing resources such as a newly recruited Coordinator, technological support for website development, capacity building for staff and trustees, and business sustainability planning.

Total Amount$203,500

Te Hurihanga ō Rangatahi

To build a therapeutic rongoā garden enhancing the connection to taiao (the environment). Te Hurihanga ō Rangatahi| Youth Hub Christchurch is a village of wellbeing-focused services with a vision to enable all young people in Ōtautahi the opportunity to lead healthy, safe and valued lives, fulfilling their potential and vibrantly contributing to their community.

Total Amount$25,000

Tātau

Funding to support the Whakapapa Project, which is a community-led initiative that aims to work directly with whānau engaged in the gang community to unpack the current difficulties whānau are facing to gain a better understanding of whānau needs and supports.

Total Amount$25,000

Papatūānuku Charitable Trust

Papatuanuku Support Services strives to offer Manaaki and hope to the homeless by providing safe housing and holistic support. These funds support the advancement of Te Ao Hou wānanga, a successful community-led co-designed programme embedding te ao Māori innovation. It included a business case review to identify options for future sustainability planning, alongside ongoing evaluation, and impact measurement.

Total Amount$236,000

Rongopai House Community Trust

Sustaining their efforts in supporting Thriving Whānau, Thriving Communities. The focus of this funding is on supporting a sustainable structure to continue delivering programmes that enhance health and wellbeing in the Far North region, specifically Kaitaia. Rongopai House, a registered charity, was established with the goal of creating a wellness centre, a haven for whānau seeking refuge from violence, addiction, and/or sexual abuse. As a community-led organisation, it offers a fresh start and a place of hope in the Far North, irrespective of faith, religion, or cultural belief.

Total Amount$235,000

Kakala Malie Incorporated Society

A start-up programme inspired by previous positive learning experiences and research of Tongan and Pacific families in South Auckland. The Fatu Lālanga project comprises of a combination of inter-generational workshops, fono and a 2-day retreat to help shift the inequities and disparities to a resilient and thriving fatu lālanga for Pacific peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand. This project is called ‘Fatu lālanga: In the spirit of collective wellbeing' (Fatu Lālanga) and encapsulates the lālanga (weaving) of knowledge and practices from the heart, for the hauora and betterment of Pacific peoples. The primary purpose of this project is to empower the local holistic wellbeing needs of Pacific learners and families involved in building quality education and care in health

Total Amount$91,000

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Association (PADA)

The mission of PADA is to eradicate perinatal mental health stigma in Aotearoa New Zealand by promoting awareness and best practices, ensuring equitable access to information and support for all families and whānau. The funding will be used to train Māori and Pasifika educators recruited from the unregulated workforce, with lived experience of maternal mental health issues and/or who have participated in Hapūtanga wānanga to increase equitable outcomes for Māori whānau and Pasifika aiga/kāinga.

Total Amount$484,000

Mana Inc

Mana Inc creates and delivers unique wānanga (workshops) that inspire, enhance and empower whānau and communities in Papakura to be the best version of themselves. The funding will support and strengthen the ‘backbone’ of Mana Inc for a 1-year period.

Total Amount$184,000

2022–2023

MAS Foundation Partnership Grants

Katoa Limited & Wairoa Te Ohonga Ake Charitable Trust

Katoa Limited, a Māori-Indigenous research organisation, conducts Kaupapa Māori research and evaluation, offering related training to address health inequities. In the Hawke’s Bay Wairoa District, with its predominantly Māori population, Katoa, alongside Te Ohonga Ake Charitable Trust, supports wānanga for young people aged 10 to 17. This initiative, guided by values of Whakapapa, Whenua, and Whanaungatanga, focuses on fostering cultural identity, resilience, and leadership skills. The program addresses high truancy rates and supports future leaders, aiming to reduce health and wellbeing inequities for rangatahi in Te Wairoa. Funding will be used to support and expand this initiative, continuing to nurture leadership skills and cultural connection among youth.

Total Amount$526,000

Te Roopu Waiora Trust

Founded in 2001, Te Roopu Waiora is a distinctive Māori organization led by whānau hauā, committed to delivering vital information and services to families with disabilities and their communities. MAS Foundation funding is supporting Te Roopu Waiora to develop ‘Pae Huarahi’ as a 3-part online series, supplemented with a digital application for ongoing workforce support. Pae Huarahi explores Māori knowledge on disability, addressing tensions between western and Māori concepts by co-creating solutions with participants. It aims to build trust and enhance the knowledge and skills of staff across the health and disability sector, alongside whānau.

Total Amount$50,000

2022–2023

MAS Foundation Community Koha

Te Kurahuna Limited

Te Kurahuna serves as the guardian of Mahi a Atua, specialising in the initial training as well as the continuous professional and personal development of the Mataora workforce. This funding supports the Rangi Mātāwai wānanga, an online Mahi a Atua course, working to improve the outcomes for ‘kaimahi oranga’ workforce wellbeing and healing from burnout while serving others during the pandemic.

Total Amount$25,000

Te Whare Aitu Charitable Trust

Te Whare Aitu Charitable Trust, a registered charity, provides specialized programs in traditional healing and wellness within the Māori worldview, covering health, social, wellbeing, education, and traditional knowledge revival. They pilot and implement the Te Akaaka Mātua wellness plan to support those impacted by COVID restrictions, including frontline workers and non-regulated service providers.

Total Amount$20,000

Institute of Education / Te Kura o Te Mātauranga, Massey University / Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa

The project seeks to collect insights from Pasifika families, children, and young people about virtual learning from home and its effects on their well-being, using talanoa. This includes hearing from Pasifika families and children with disabilities, whose experiences during and after COVID-19 have not been fully understood, yet their input on effective strategies is crucial.

Total Amount$25,000

Maia Dreams Limited - Confident Me Programme

The Confident Me program, led by Maia Dreams, helps students improve their well-being with life strategies and coping tools. MAS Foundation is helping Maia Dreams become a registered charity by covering legal fees, business sustainability costs, and providing business mentorship.

Total Amount$10,000

Te Kāhui Manukura o Kai Ora (National Māori Dietitians Rōpū of Aotearoa)

Established in 2008, provides support for Māori Dietitian New Zealand members to develop their practice framework and grow Māori dietitians in Aotearoa. This funding supports a strategic planning event at Mataatua Marae for national members of Te Kāhui Manukura o Kai Ora, enhancing culturally relevant nutrition and dietetic support. This initiative, led by Māori dietitians, fosters personal and professional development in Te Ao Māori.

Total Amount$5,000

Māori in Radiation Oncology (MiRO)

MiRO aims to enhance workforce capability for Māori in Radiation Oncology, seeking support to establish and expand their group for broader impact. MAS Foundation is supporting MiRO to legally incorporate their group, build their brand and website, and organize professional development workshops. These initiatives foster connections among members and stakeholders, drive meaningful change, and combat institutional racism in radiation oncology.

Total Amount$11,200

The Stroke Foundation of New Zealand

MAS Foundation supports the Stroke Foundation Collective Impact Community Co-Design project. This involves undertaking a resource re-design process with tangata whenua, (and then with Pacific and Asian communities), who are most at risk of stroke. Funding from MAS Foundation supports the ‘Initiate Actions’ phase of the collective impact to create a change approach which includes understanding the community landscape and key players, identifying existing work in progress, gathering baseline data, and creating an overarching governance structure.

Total Amount$24,200

International Kiwi Consultants Limited – Tapa Talanoa Co-designing series

MAS Foundation and J R McKenzie support IK Consultants in delivering phases 1 and 2 of the Ngatu initiative, which aims to empower Tongan women. Phase 1 involves hosting an annual workshop conference event in Auckland to facilitate knowledge sharing among Tongan women. Phase 2 includes ongoing community engagement sessions with Auckland-based Tongan women Ngatu-making groups. The initiative aims to raise awareness of Ngatu's potential impact on collaboration among Tongan women globally and to empower Pasifika communities to utilize indigenous knowledge systems with disruptive technology. Funding for phase 3 will be sought from other sources.

Total Amount$25,000

Ora Toa Primary Healthcare Organisation - Te Runanga O Toa Rangatira

Ora Toa PHO is dedicated to enhancing community health and well-being by offering accessible, affordable, and coordinated services, ensuring continuous care for all. This funding was additional support to maintain the pilot Hapu Māmā run by Ora Toa Cannons Creek Medical and Dental looking to improve the dental health outcomes for expectant mothers and their children and providing newborn babies with a better start to life.

Total Amount$5,000

2021–2022

MAS Foundation Partnership Grants

Toi Matarua

Toi Matarua based in Heretaunga is a rangatahi-driven performing arts group established in 2011 that focuses on mental health and Indigenous suicide prevention through free wānanga. With funding for a 2-year partnership, the organisation aims to support rangatahi-led research initiatives known as 'Passion Projects,' which address issues pertinent to Māori youth in specific communities. These projects foster health and wellbeing equity, leveraging a tuākana-teina support system and engaging young researchers in advanced academic programs. Toi Matarua's efforts, grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, build community capacity and have the potential to drive systemic change through established relationships with government agencies and Māori providers.

Total Amount$357,000

Te Aho Tapu Trust

Te Aho Tapu Trust supports Mauri Tau me te Māramatanga (MTM), a mindfulness meditation program enriched with te ao Māori, designed to help people in Aotearoa New Zealand thrive through challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. This program, which aligns with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is co-delivered by tangata whenua to ensure an authentic Māori perspective. MTM resonates well with Māori and Pasifika participants and has potential for broader community access. The funding supported the development of a sustainable business model, increase resource capacity, and integrate the program into the health and education systems, ultimately extending its reach and impact.

Total Amount$370,000

Brainwave Trust Aotearoa

Brainwave Trust Aotearoa, a charitable organisation, works to ensure all tamariki in Aotearoa are valued and nurtured by making research on the first thousand days of life accessible and understandable. The Trust emphasizes the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and has increased Māori and Pasifika representation at governance levels. The funding supported initiatives that co-design educational wānanga with partners to meet the unique needs of Māori and Pasifika families, fostering collaborative efforts to promote systems change in areas such as educational curriculum development.

Total Amount$350,000

Moana Connect

Moana Connect, founded in 2017, prioritises empowering Pasifika families and communities to achieve optimal health and wellbeing outcomes, particularly focusing on the early years to ensure Pasifika children have the best start in life. Governed and led by Pasifika communities, Moana Research integrates Pasifika values and frameworks into its initiatives, aligning closely with Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and fostering partnerships with Māori whakapapa. The funding supported community-led initiatives aimed at leveraging cultural insights and relationships to influence policy and government decisions, emphasising equitable solutions and systemic change across health and beyond.

Total Amount$341,040

Health Coalition Aotearoa Incorporated

Health Coalition Aotearoa Incorporated is an alliance of 45 member organisations focused on improving health and equity across Aotearoa New Zealand. Their Healthy Futures initiative aims to tackle alcohol harm, unhealthy food marketing, and child nutrition while addressing health inequities for Māori, Pacific peoples, and disadvantaged families. The initiative seeks support to fund a Healthy Futures Fellow, who will produce investigative reports and drive sector engagement to promote policy changes. The funding will also support sector coordination and research efforts, with the goal of establishing a robust foundation for long-term health and prevention policies.

Total Amount$340,000

Foureyes Foundation

Foureyes Foundation, dedicated to equity advocacy, addresses vision inequity by providing free eye care services through collaborations with community clinics and schools. Their collaborative approach removes barriers to learning by offering free vision screenings, testing, and glasses for disadvantaged children, impacting health and education. This funding supported essential operational expenses, facilitating expansion of their impactful initiatives beyond project-specific constraints. Additionally, this grant aligns with Trust-based philanthropy principles by providing multi-year unrestricted funding, promoting sustainability, and enhancing long-term health and educational outcomes for underserved communities.

Total Amount$308,000

Toi Tangata

Toi Tangata Te Ara Reo Hauora, led by Toi Tangata, aims to enhance the Māori health workforce by addressing barriers to developing te reo and mātauranga Māori leadership. This initiative, supported by a scoping project in 2021, seeks to increase workforce capability and capacity to meet the cultural wellbeing needs of whānau and strengthen the identity and wellbeing of Māori health workers. The funding will be used to develop a feasibility and implementation strategy for integrating the scheme into the health system, aligning with Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and the Māori Health Authority’s focus on workforce development and mātauranga Māori, ultimately promoting systemic change.

Total Amount$123,000

Whakamanamai Charitable Trust

Whakamanamai Charitable Trust, established in 2020, supports the Whakaoranga Whānau Recovery Hub in Kaikohe, addressing the needs of whānau facing mental health and addiction issues amidst significant deprivation. Both organisations are Māori-led, grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and aim to promote tino rangatiratanga and mana motuhake. The funding will investigate community and systemic influences affecting Kaikohe whānau, develop a strategic and sustainable plan for addressing these issues, and strengthen the operational infrastructure to enhance service delivery and secure further funding.

Total Amount$20,000

University of Otago

University of Otago Project TOOTS team from Otago University, composed of medical practitioners and a creative impact consultant, aims to improve oral health-related knowledge and behaviours among preschool children. This initiative supports broader health goals of enhancing child oral health, reducing inequalities, and addressing inequities. MAS Foundation is supporting Project TOOTS by funding the co-design of an early childhood oral health literacy resource from a te ao Māori perspective, facilitated through connections with kōhanga reo. Additionally, funding will enable digital dissemination and translation of the resource into Pasifika languages.

Total Amount$65,488

2021–2022

MAS Foundation Community Koha

Katoa Limited

Katoa Limited, a Māori-Indigenous research organisation that conducts Kaupapa Māori research and evaluation and offers related training. They supported Wairoa's community efforts to foster future leaders among youth and address health inequities. In the Hawke’s Bay Wairoa District, with its predominantly Māori population, the initiative included a 7-day wānanga for 50 children aged 10 to 17. This programme focused on cultural identity, resilience and leadership skills. The grant covered essential costs like food, venue, transport and staff, promoting a strengths-based approach to community development and enhancing long-term wellbeing outcomes for Wairoa's youth.

Total Amount$22,000

Rongopai House Community Trust

Rongopai House Community Trust provides essential support to the Far North Community by fostering positive change and promoting wellbeing. Their flagship program, ‘Feed My Lambs’, empowers mothers and their children to build homes centred on safety, health and resilience. Through a strengths-based approach and close partnerships with local agencies, the Trust offers comprehensive, client-centred support. This funding supported their Whānau Coach and covered general operational costs, further enhancing mental health and wellbeing outcomes for the community.

Total Amount$10,000

ASH – Action for Smokefree 2025

ASH – Action for Smokefree 2025 is dedicated to eliminating the harm caused by tobacco through high-quality tobacco control measures and comprehensive research. Their initiative aimed to improve cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes and reduce inequities by supporting high-risk individuals to become and remain smokefree. The funding was used for a project that sought to understand and address the barriers faced by patients and clinicians, focusing particularly on Māori, Pasifika, and other underserved populations. This project gathered insights to influence systemic changes, ultimately improving support for individuals at risk of or living with CVD to quit smoking, thereby, enhancing health and wellbeing equity.

Total Amount$76,500

Body Positive Ltd

Body Positive Limited is dedicated to supporting HIV-positive New Zealanders and reducing stigma while increasing awareness. With rising HIV diagnoses among younger individuals, as young as 16, and a lack of sexual health education, their goal is to provide information about HIV prevention tools like PrEP and encourage regular sexual health testing. This initiative’s aim was to decrease stigma, empower informed decision-making, and improve overall wellbeing among our communities.

Total Amount$10,340

PACYFIC Trust (Pacific Child, Youth and Family Integrated Care Health Trust)

PACYFIC Trust (Pacific Child, Youth, and Family Integrated Care Health Trust) has been organising youth events, including an annual week-long camp for teenage girls across Aotearoa New Zealand, since 2013. Their mission is to educate, mentor and empower young girls, fostering resilience, cultural identity, and strong family connections. Led by health professionals with support from parent and youth volunteers, the Trust provides ongoing mentorship. MAS Foundation supported PACYFIC Trust's one-week camp for Māori and Pasifika teenage girls, enhancing their educational and cultural experiences while promoting health and wellbeing equity.

Total Amount$8,250

South Seas Healthcare Trust

South Seas Healthcare Trust based in Otara, South Auckland, aims to improve health and wellbeing equity among Pacific and Māori teenage mothers through its proposed initiative, ‘Pacific Weaving for Wellness’. The Trust’s mission was to establish and sustain a weaving group that will provide intergenerational fellowship and support for cultural identity journeys. Led by experienced Pacific women, the group meets weekly to teach traditional weaving (Tivaevae) and create Wahakura (Safe Sleep baby bassinettes). This initiative aligns with MAS Foundation's priorities on equity, targeting teenage mothers and fostering cultural connections to enhance community health outcomes.

Total Amount$35,000

Rainbow Youth Incorporated

Rainbow Youth Incorporated supports queer, gender diverse, takatāpui and intersex youth aged 13 to 27 in Aotearoa New Zealand through peer support, information, resources, and advocacy. They strive to create safe, inclusive and drug, smoke, and alcohol-free environments where all young people can thrive. MAS Foundation supported Rainbow Youth in implementing a co-design approach to enhance the evaluation and feedback of their existing support systems. This initiative focuses on improving training, youth development and service responsiveness, with a specific emphasis on regional centres, ensuring equitable access and support for youth across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Total Amount$25,000

Te Tūahū a Hine Wānanga

Te Tūahū a Hine Wānanga MAS Foundation supported the implementation and evaluation of Te Tūahū o Hine wānanga, led by Maramataka practitioners and Māori Wahine, aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of wahine Māori through cultural practices such as ceremonies (ruahine, te maioha, kohine) and traditional knowledge (maramataka, fertility, ira mareikura). The wānanga sessions fostered learning and built relationships, sustained through an online network. An evaluation process was conducted to assess the impact and effectiveness of these cultural teachings and community connections.

Total Amount$8,500

SIAOLA - Vahefonua Tonga Methodist Mission

SIAOLA - Vahefonua Tonga Methodist Mission Charitable Trust, serves as the mission arm of the Tongan synod within the Methodist Church of New Zealand and is a member of the Methodist Alliance. Committed to creating a just and inclusive society where all people flourish, SIAOLA provides culturally competent health, social, educational, language, cultural, and financial wellbeing services nationwide. These services aim to build resilient and loving homes among Tongan families, fostering environments where individuals can thrive. MAS Foundation supported SIAOLA to enhance its Family Wellbeing services, particularly through its Famili Moʻui Lelei Health initiative, focusing on promoting healthy lifestyles, vaccinations, and improving health literacy within the community.

Total Amount$20,000

Pride in Health

Pride in Health, a charitable organisation led by volunteer medical doctors, is dedicated to advancing the health and wellbeing of the Rainbow Community. Their mission focuses on promoting Rainbow competency among healthcare professionals to achieve equitable health outcomes, with particular emphasis on adolescent psychological wellbeing, positive sexual health and health equity. The organisation operates with a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and a community-led approach, including doctors who are tangata whenua from the Rainbow community, and Pasifika. MAS Foundation supported Pride in Health by strengthening its organisational infrastructure, including expanding its website to provide comprehensive resources for healthcare professionals. Funding also facilitated the development of Rainbow-specific guidelines, training materials, videos, and support for medical student education.

Total Amount$25,000

Ora Toa Primary Healthcare Organisation- Te Runanga O Toa Rangatira

Ora Toa Primary Healthcare Organisation- Te Runanga O Toa Rangatira, conducted a pilot oral health initiative, the Hapū Māmā Programme supported by MAS Foundation. This program offered free dental services to hapū māmā, addressing barriers that often prevent them from seeking care. Services included treatment planning, oral health education, and linking parents to local oral health services for their children. The initiative aimed to reduce stigma and increase access to dental care during pregnancy and early infancy. Over 45 patients benefited from treatments ranging from emergency care to comprehensive oral health solutions, fostering better oral health outcomes for future generations.

Total Amount$10,000

Take Notice Limited

Take Notice Limited and associates bring extensive expertise in the mental health and addiction sector, focusing on evaluation, research, lived experience, Kaupapa Māori initiatives, peer support, leadership, and service development. They sought funding to support a submission advocating for the repeal and replacement of the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992, as recommended by He Ara Oranga: The Mental Health Inquiry's Recommendation 34. This initiative aims to amplify our narratives and research, promoting kaupapa Māori-led initiatives, healing environments, and least restrictive practices. The funding was used to facilitate hui to gather Māori whānau experiences impacted by the Act, covering costs for participants, hui logistics, and supporting the collation, design, peer review, and advocacy of our public submission.

Total Amount$10,000

PADA - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa

PADA – Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa is a non-governmental organisation committed to improving outcomes for expectant and new mothers, along with their families and whānau, affected by mental health challenges related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. Their mission is to eradicate stigma surrounding perinatal mental health in Aotearoa by advocating awareness and promoting best practices. PADA sought partnership funding to extend the contract of their PADA Educator based in Tāmaki Makaurau. This role focuses on enhancing training, awareness, and resilience-building initiatives for Māori, Pacific, refugee, and migrant mothers, aiming to expand support networks and outreach efforts within these communities.

Total Amount$10,000

Hapai Taumaha Hapūtanga-Crisis Pregnancy Support (HTH-CPS)

Hapai Taumaha Hapūtanga-Crisis Pregnancy Support (HTH-CPS) is a charitable trust dedicated to providing essential support to vulnerable women experiencing unexpected or crisis pregnancies in Nelson/Tasman. For 19 years, HTH-CPS has offered free, personalised care through a team of health professionals who navigate clients through emotional and practical challenges. Their holistic approach aims to reduce stressors, build confidence, and establish strong support networks, addressing issues like homelessness, abuse and financial instability. The organisation also provides specialised care for pregnancy loss and abortion-related grief. Funding from MAS Foundation was used for sustaining operational costs crucial for maintaining essential roles and developing initiatives like their upcoming e-learning platform to enhance maternal and infant wellbeing support across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Total Amount$10,000

Helensville Birthing Centre

Helensville Birthing Centre (HBC) is a vital maternity facility in rural Helensville, offering primary inpatient maternity care under Waitemata DHB. As a subsidiary of Helensville District Health Trust, HBC is committed to improving local health equity by providing exceptional care and services that enhance psychological wellbeing for mothers and optimal health outcomes for children. HBC sought funding to sustain and expand its services, including the development of a Health Navigator role over 2 years. This initiative empowered local whānau by facilitating access to essential health and social services, thereby strengthening community resilience, and promoting long-term health literacy.

Total Amount$7,500

PATHA - Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa

PATHA – Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa sought support from MAS Foundation to fund their inaugural transgender healthcare symposium in September 2021. PATHA is committed to promoting the health, wellbeing, and rights of transgender people across Aotearoa New Zealand. This symposium aims to address significant health inequities faced by trans and non-binary communities by providing a crucial platform for healthcare professionals to enhance their knowledge and practice in transgender health. The funding supported the organisation and facilitation of the symposium, including venue costs, speaker fees, and accessibility measures. This event plays a pivotal role in fostering connections among professionals, promoting best practices in transgender healthcare, and advocating for improved healthcare access and services for transgender individuals nationwide.

Total Amount$10,000

Waitaha Primary Health

Waitaha Primary Health runs the ‘Mother4mother’ Breastfeeding Support initiative in Otautahi/Christchurch, funded by the Canterbury District Health Board (DHB) since 2009. This program provides free mother-to-mother breastfeeding support, facilitated by trained peer supporters who offer education sessions, assistance with feeding challenges, and referrals to lactation consultants. The funding supported a part-time educator/facilitator who trains new peer supporters annually and coordinates 11 weekly support groups across Christchurch. These groups are vital for improving breastfeeding outcomes, particularly among Māori, Pasifika, young mothers, and rural communities. The initiative aims to sustain and expand these groups to more suitable venues, ensuring ongoing access to essential breastfeeding support services.

Total Amount$8,000

Grassroots, University of Auckland

Grassroots, University of Auckland Grassroots is a student-led rural health organisation dedicated to encouraging clinical students to pursue careers in rural health and fostering their understanding of Te Ao and Hauora Māori. Supported by MAS Foundation, their initiative included funding a noho marae in Te Tai Tokerau to enhance professional and cultural competencies among students and inspire local rangatahi to pursue rural health careers. Additionally, the initiative aimed to advocate for curriculum changes through an evaluation component.

Total Amount$4,500

2020–2021

MAS Foundation Grants

Ōtara Health Charitable Trust

Ōtara Health Charitable Trust (OHCT) is a well-established organisation in Otara, South Auckland, dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for whānau and neighbourhoods. Their diverse programmes address the unique needs of the Otara community, particularly focusing on Pacific and Māori elders and whānau with pre-existing health conditions. OHCT seeks funding for the Nu’u Malosi (Strong Village) initiative, a 12-month intervention designed to support local community efforts, offering holistic health, social, and education programs. This initiative includes intense engagement, wrap-around services, and community action research to build resilience and support within the community. Amid COVID-19, OHCT identified increased community needs and opportunities for learning and resilience-sharing unique to Pacific and Māori communities. The funding will cover a program leader, materials, equipment, and resources for community needs, such as food parcels, household necessities, and support for accessing services and information.

Total Amount$50,000

Pacific Leaders Forum / Eagles Sports & Cultural Collective

The Pacific Leader Forum is a network of senior Pacific leaders from various church and community groups across Aotearoa New Zealand. They work to ensure the holistic wellbeing of Pacific people, focusing on physical health, emotional and mental wellness, and spiritual wellbeing. During the COVID-19 crisis, PLF identified significant communication gaps affecting Pacific communities and proactively begun efforts to inform and protect these vulnerable groups. PLF sought funding for their initiative, Pasifika Against COVID-19, which aims to rapidly implement a community-led communication and engagement approach. This initiative used social media, radio, podcasts, and other platforms to educate Pacific people about COVID-19, motivated them to adopt preventive measures, remove barriers to compliance, and support adaptation to the new environment. PLF aimed to enhance health and wellbeing equity among Pacific communities during that critical time.

Total Amount$50,000

Tukau Community Fund

Tukau Community Fund a registered charity based in Kaikohe, Northland, supported communities during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing free reusable sanitary products to women. This COVID-19 Te Tai Tama Wahine Southern Bay of Islands Response initiative, targeted vulnerable families in Moerewa, Kawakawa, and surrounding rural areas. By supplying menstrual cups and period underwear, it aimed to prevent women and girls from needing to leave home during lockdown, reduce household waste, and conserve family financial resources for essential items. The reusable products were supplied at production cost through a partnership with MyCup Aotearoa New Zealand Ltd, based on local needs assessments. All activities adhered to Level 4 Government restrictions, with St John assisting in safe delivery. This funding supported this critical response.

Total Amount$10,000

Men's Health Trust

Men's Health Trust in association with Sector 3 Foundation, focuses on improving the health and wellbeing of Aotearoa New Zealand men, especially Pacific and Māori men, through various initiatives and virtual solutions. The funding supported Phase 1 of the Goodfella’s project, designed to elevate existing men’s health initiatives and provide virtual support to men and their families during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aimed to enhance community health, increase awareness of men's health issues, and provide essential services through a robust digital infrastructure.

Total Amount$75,000

National Institute for Health Innovation / Auckland UniServices Ltd

The National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI) at the University of Auckland proposed an online platform to support the commissioning, peer-reviewing, and posting of rapid evidence reviews on COVID-19 control measures. These reviews assisted public health specialists in making informed decisions by providing summaries of relevant literature within 48 hours. The platform aimed to streamline the review process, ensuring efficient management and regular updates. The initiative improved health and wellbeing equity by evaluating the impact of interventions on different populations. The funding was used for the development, maintenance, and editorial work for the platform.

Total Amount$16,000

Salt Innovation Ltd

Salt, through its initiative Ark Health Discovery hosted on Facebook, increases healthcare access in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Their interactive COVID-19 chatbot, Āmio, launched in February 2020, has exchanged over 180,000 messages, providing COVID-19 information and self-assessment tools. The chatbot redirects unanswered questions to medical professionals. Ark Health Discovery and Āmio, developed by registered New Zealand medical practitioners, operate as public services. Funding from MAS Foundation supported further development and maintenance of Ark Health Discovery and Āmio, including software subscriptions, content development, Facebook advertising, website creation, and translation services. This initiative aims to enhance health and wellbeing equity by combating misinformation and ensuring equitable access to accurate health information for vulnerable communities.

Total Amount$38,500

Te Kōhao Health

Te Kōhao Health, serving the Waikato region for 25 years, supports approximately 8,500 individuals with comprehensive health, education, social, and justice services. As a lead Whānau Ora provider, they prioritize holistic support for their predominantly Māori patient base, many facing complex health challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Te Kohao Health has adapted by offering free medications delivered directly to patients, ensuring their safety and continued access to essential healthcare. They also provide free flu vaccinations and distribute Whānau Ora hygiene packs to the community. Te Kohao Health sought funding with the aim to sustain these critical services and prepare for winter by alleviating the impact on whānau with essential items such as food and blankets. This funding provided crucial operational support to meet immediate community needs effectively.

Total Amount$10,000

Te Whānau Tokotokorangi Trust

Te Whānau Tokotokorangi Trust is a Kaupapa Māori organisation established in 1996, serving Rotorua and neighbouring communities. They provide essential health and disability services through initiatives like Mātāpuna residential care, Ao Manaaki day activities, Kaha Tū advocacy, and Tīwhaki Hinengaro education. Their work promotes holistic health and wellbeing equity by integrating cultural practices and community support, improving outcomes for individuals with disabilities and their families. They sought funding for their Tū Taikākā initiative, the Trust’s aim was to establish a community-based program for at-risk youth, fostering their mental, physical, social and spiritual health. This initiative includes cultural activities, arts, horticulture, fitness programs, and health qualifications to empower youth towards independence and leadership.

Total Amount$78,320

Wellington Student Volunteer Army / Victoria University Wellington Students Association

Wellington Student Volunteer Army (WSVA)/Victoria University Wellington Students Association a dedicated group of over 600 students across the Wellington Region, that provided essential services during the COVID-19 lockdown. They offered support such as running errands, delivering free food parcels and menstrual products, and combating loneliness through community connections. Their efforts not only ensured immediate assistance but also fostered long-term community resilience. WSVA sought funding from the MAS Foundation to sustain operations, covering health supplies, transport, community support, service promotion, and other essential costs. This funding aimed to enhance their impact, ensuring continued support for vulnerable communities beyond the pandemic.

Total Amount$11,500

Vahefonua Tonga Methodist Mission Charitable Trust

Vahefonua Tonga Methodist Mission Charitable Trust (SIAOLA) is dedicated to empowering and supporting Tongan families across Aotearoa New Zealand through culturally sensitive social services. As a national service based in Central Auckland, SIAOLA focuses on enhancing family wellbeing among Pacific communities, particularly Tongan families, by addressing challenges exacerbated by COVID-19 such as job loss, financial strain, and mental health issues. With funding from MAS Foundation, SIAOLA plans to employ a Navigator to assist 2,000 new families in accessing essential services and navigating health systems, crucial for community resilience and health equity. This initiative aimed to ensure that Tongan families received comprehensive support tailored to their cultural and community needs, contributing to long-term wellbeing and stability.

Total Amount$43,000

National Hauora Coalition

National Hauora Coalition The research project, titled ‘Lockdown Doctors: Reducing Māori health inequities’, was led by a collaborative team including Dr Erena Wikaire, Associate Professors Dr Matire Harwood, Dr Sue Crengle, Dr Rawiri Keenan, and supported by the National Hauora Coalition PHO. This initiative aimed to address significant health disparities experienced by Māori through the exploration of virtual GP clinics as potential solutions. These clinics had shown promise in reducing barriers to healthcare access for Māori during the COVID-19 lockdown, such as eliminating travel costs and wait times. The project, employing Kaupapa Māori research principles, sought to inform the future design and implementation of virtual healthcare services that are culturally responsive and effective for Māori communities. Funding supported research activities including participant engagement, data collection, and dissemination of findings to enhance healthcare equity for Māori.

Total Amount$64,745

Te Roopu Waiora Trust

Te Roopu Waiora Trust, a consumer-based organisation founded and governed by whānau haua, focuses on addressing health and wellbeing equity for Māori with disabilities. Despite one in three Māori experiencing some form of disability, they often face significant barriers in accessing support and health services. The organisation aims to improve this by providing culturally appropriate, accessible information and support through their initiative, Paerangi. This online information and referral center, designed with whānau hauā, marae communities, and kaumātua, offers COVID-19 related support that is easy to access, language appropriate, and whānau relevant. Funding for Paerangi will support its mission to ensure that Māori communities are informed, prepared, and enabled to take the right actions, ultimately reducing health inequities, and enhancing community well-being.

Total Amount$70,000

University of Auckland Medical and Health Sciences

University of Auckland Medical and Health Sciences sought funding to support a proof of concept for a reusable PPE system to address COVID-19-related shortages and reduce environmental waste. This initiative aimed to disinfect and recycle surgical and N95 masks, gowns, and visors using heat and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGi). By enhancing PPE availability and sustainability, the project supported the protection of healthcare workers and the wider community through innovative and sustainable healthcare practices.

Total Amount$46,000

CureKids, University of Auckland

CureKids, University of Auckland’s summer studentship program seeks to enhance the understanding of breastfeeding rates in Aotearoa New Zealand through two key projects. The first project aims to develop a database of breastfeeding support services across different regions, identifying disparities in support availability. The second project explores the content of breastfeeding education in healthcare programs, comparing it to international standards and examining its correlation with national breastfeeding rates. These initiatives aimed to address inequities in breastfeeding support and education, ultimately working to improve health outcomes for women and infants.

Total Amount$7,000

CureKids, University of Auckland

CureKids, University of Auckland’s summer studentship program seeks to enhance the understanding of breastfeeding rates in Aotearoa New Zealand through 2 key projects. The first project aims to develop a database of breastfeeding support services across different regions, identifying disparities in support availability. The second project explores the content of breastfeeding education in healthcare programs, comparing it to international standards and examining its correlation with national breastfeeding rates. These initiatives aimed to address inequities in breastfeeding support and education, ultimately working to improve health outcomes for women and infants.

Total Amount$6,000

Health Coalition Aotearoa Incorporated

Health Equity Fellow

Total Amount$340,000

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