Empowering New Beginnings

At the Waikato Hauraki Coromandel Rural Support Trust, we are committed to assisting farmers and growers throughout the region. We share a strong connection to the primary sector and understand the challenges that many face.

Our non-profit organisation provides free assistance to farmers and growers in need. We tailor our support to meet the specific needs of each individual or family seeking help. When someone reaches out for assistance, they are paired with a dedicated support person ("RST  facilitator"). The RST facilitatator's role is to listen, understand their situation, any concerns, and help to identify the necessary assistance. They will support in creating and executing a plan and, if and when facilitate external referrals. 

Farmers and growers are welcome to reach out to us confidentially to discuss any issues weighing on their minds, whether they relate to work or personal matters. Our independence also enables us to work effectively to assist those working in, or closely connected to primary industries during and after adverse weather events.

We take pride in our personalised approach, ensuring that every farmer feels heard and valued. Our team is composed of a variety of facilitators who are not only knowledgeable about rural practices but also empathetic to the emotional and financial stresses that can accompany farming life. Our ultimate goal is to empower farmers and growers to thrive, fostering a resilient primary sector.

Over the years,  we have seen a significant increase in the number and complexity of cases. We feel truly honored that others view us as a trusted organisation to turn to in challenging times, and we are committed to being that support. This realisation highlighted the importance of growing our team and equipping them to be able to effectively address these challenges. As an organisation, it was essential for us to ensure that we had sufficient resources available so that anyone in need of support wouldn't face delays. This required us to evaluate our current practices, expand our team, and integrate new team members and support them to be able to support others. 

We are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a significant grant from the Donny Fund, managed by the Momentum Waikato Community Foundation. This generous support will play a crucial role in strengthening our capabilities and enhancing the services we provide to our community.

With the funds received, we aim to invest in crucial areas that empower our team to deliver even more impactful and efficient support. This includes providing advanced training for our facilitators, a comprehensive onboarding program so we can to expand our team and upgrading essential tools and resources.

By equipping our team and the ability to bring in new team members, we are committed to improving our service delivery and ensuring our team can respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of those we serve.

By establishing opportunities for learning and growth, we aim to nurture a culture of ongoing improvement and mutual support within our organisation. 

Ultimately, this grant allows us to not only enhance our current operations but also to explore new avenues for expanding our impact. We are excited for the opportunities ahead and are dedicated to using these resources to create meaningful and sustainable change in our community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Donny Fund and Momentum Waikato Community Foundation for their unwavering commitment to fostering community development and wellbeing. Their support not only validates our ongoing efforts but also inspires us to continue pursuing excellence in our service delivery.

This grant represents more than just financial assistance; it is a testament to the belief in our mission and the positive change we strive to bring about. Together, with the backing of such generous benefactors, we are poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Donny story shows philanthropy is evolving | Momentum Waikato