Community Organisations Proudly Doing Their Bit

St John Feilding Area Committee provides an invaluable health shuttle service, helping patients get to appointments and access vital health services. In the 2024/25 financial year, 916 individuals used the service, equivalent to 6,279 trips - some travelling as far as Wellington. In its 30th year of community service, St John Feilding Area Committee’s team of 63 volunteers received a 100% satisfaction rating from shuttle users. The service helps patients get to appointments, access health services, maintain their independence, and reduce isolation, with many passengers forming regular connections with their drivers.

The Tenants’ Union, formerly Manawatū Tenants’ Union, plays an important role in providing tenant advice, advocacy, and education. During the 2024/25 financial year, they delivered 34 education seminars, including 11 in the Manawatū District, covering topics such as financial literacy and renting. Since the reporting period, the organisation has undergone transformational change, adopting a more regional, holistic approach to remove boundaries and support more tenants to access its services. With 326 tenants (across Palmerston North and District), clients reflected a strong satisfaction rate with working with the Tenants’ Union and have better access to secure, safe, affordable housing as a result.

Feilding Community Patrol has a strong presence and reputation around town as the eyes and ears of the community.  In the 2024/25 financial year, the patrol of 65 volunteers ran a 24/7 roster and completed 1,004 hours of mahi, providing safety, reassurance, and confidence to the community. The patrol also maintains a strong working relationship with local Police, completing a total of 217 reports for Police liaison officers during the year. To continue strengthening their role in protecting the community, the patrol is planning further training in areas such as first response to vehicle accidents and civil defence emergency management.

Manawatū District Council is proud to support these three organisations through the Community Development Priority Services Fund, recognising the important role they play in supporting wellbeing and helping keep our communities safe.

MDC’s Community Development Priority Services Fund supports non-profit organisations who enhance community well-being, create a sense of belonging and foster social equity. To learn more about the Community Development Priority Services Fund, please visit MDC’s website: Community Development Fund | Manawatū District Council