New donation for Hohepa Homes

A major redevelopment programme underway at Hohepa School in Poraiti, Napier, is to receive a second $50,000 donation from the Eastern and Central Community Trust.

The donation matches one of the same amount given three years ago when the redevelopment plan was launched, and another $25,000 given by the Community Trust last year.

Hohepa School in Poraiti is a special school that provides care and education for people with mental disabilities. It was built in 1957 and no longer meets modern standards or the changing needs of its students. Hohepa’s Poraiti site covers about 20 hectares and has residential housing for adults and children.

The first stage of work has been completed, with two further stages now underway.

$40,000 child centre improvement donation

The Napier Community Child Care Centre will use a donation of $40,000 from the Community Trust to improve facilities at its Napier and Port Ahuriri premises. The busy centres cater for large numbers of children and the donation will go towards upgrading bathrooms at both sites. Air conditioning units, a new kitchen, furniture, beds, computers and a range of play equipment have all been added in the past two years.

The donation is one of the largest given this month from the total pool of almost $370,000 for Hawke’s Bay organisations.

Services for the elderly

The activity base for a group of older people in Hastings is on the move and the Community Trust is helping smooth the way. The St Martin’s Hall in Willowpark Road, which is one of two Riverslea Anglican Parish buildings, is being upgraded to coincide with the relocation of church and community activities for a large group of elderly people previously using the St James Hall in Duke Street.

Improvements to the St Martin’s Hall, including kitchen and toilet renovations and disability access, are estimated to cost around $80,000, with the Community Trust donation of $20,000 providing a kick-start for the project.

Keirunga Gardens upgrade continues

A $12,000 donation from the Community Trust will help meet the $31,000 budget for work at Keirunga Gardens, including roof painting of Nelson Room, artists studio and the caretakers cottage and garage.

Keirunga Gardens, set in six hectares of reserve, is used by artists and community groups from throughout Hawke’s Bay. Keirunga Homestead, built in the early 20th Century is also a key attraction for visitors.