Trust Horizon supports mission to boost the health and wellbeing of the community

Christopher Hall (AoD Counsellor) and Ormond Hynes (Operations Manager)

Mental health and addictions service, Te Ika Whenua Counselling Services Trust, has recently undertaken an electrical upgrade project with the help of a Trust Horizon grant.

Based in Murupara, the Te Ika Whenua provides a free counselling service for those who are experiencing harm as a result of their alcohol or drug use, as well as support and counselling to youth and whānau who are affected by a loved one's alcohol or drug use.

In addition, Te Ika Whenua runs a Methamphetamine Demand Reduction programme (Te Ahi Mauri) for those seeking help to quit methamphetamine use. Te Ahi Mauri is modelled on Northland's Te Ara Oranga programme, which is credited with reaching thousands and drastically reducing drug-related harm.

Te Ika Whenua envisages a future where whānau are self-determining, living healthy lifestyles, and confidently participating in Te Ao Māori and the wider community.

The $24,125 Trust Horizon grant has been put towards upgrading the heating, lighting, and appliances in the Te Ika Whenua’s office building with more energy-efficient alternatives.

“We are very pleased to be recipients of a Trust Horizon grant,” says Ormond Hynes, Te Ika Whenua Counselling Services Operations Manager. “Our clients (and ourselves!) are benefitting from the improvements afforded through the upgrades whist engaging with them daily and we are pleased to have a more energy-efficient building. Ngā mihi nui Trust Horizon!”

The building’s inefficient wall heaters have been replaced with air conditioning units, which offer summer cooling and winter heating; aging fluorescent lights that are difficult to source replacements for have been replaced with energy-efficient LED batten lights; and external lights have been installed to increase safety for those accessing the premises at night. The installation of a mains pressure hot water cylinder, hand drier and dishwasher will contribute to improved hygiene standards for clients and staff, and a new refrigerator will increase energy efficiency.

These improvements allow Te Ika Whenua Counselling Services to focus on the important mahi of supporting their community in a safe and enjoyable environment, rather than worrying about deteriorating facilities.

“Supporting the health and wellbeing of our community is a number one priority, so we’re proud to be able to assist Te Ika Whenua Counselling Services Trust in their mission to provide alcohol and drug counselling,” says Trust Horizon trustee Edwina O’Brien. “It’s a bonus that in doing so, we can also enable their operations to be more energy efficient.”

Learn more about our Trust Horizon community funding here.