Council contributes $100,000 to Clutha's Mayoral Relief fund

Clutha District Council is contributing $100,000 to Clutha’s Mayoral Relief fund to provide financial support to those affected by the devastating weather event that put Clutha into a state of emergency with widespread damage and power outages throughout the district last week.

Clutha District Mayor Elect Jock Martin said Council’s contribution would increase the total of the fund to $150,000 which included Central Government’s $50,000 contribution announced on Monday.

“As I tour around the district, I’m seeing so much devastation and damage.

“Our contribution will give the fund a boost to be able to provide more relief for those facing immediate serious welfare issues,” Mayor Elect Martin said.

There had been strong interest in the fund from the community since its inception on Monday.

Mayor Elect Martin is asking councils from throughout New Zealand to contribute to the fund and support the people of Clutha.

“We won’t know the full extent of the damage but we’ve seen enough to know that it is significant.

“Clutha people are strong, resourceful and resilient, but even we need help sometimes to get back on our feet and on the road to recovery.”

This fund is administered by the Mayor and held in a separate Council bank account. Please send all donations to 03 1734 0061851 02. When making a donation please use the reference “Mayoral Relief Fund”.

The fund is for affected individuals/families, rural communities, community organisations, and small businesses that:

• Have experienced financial hardship caused by a natural disaster event
• Require basic needs, household goods, and personal items (uninsured or underinsured)
• Support with clearing debris from properties that are not insured or are underinsured

Funds contributed to the Mayoral Relief Fund will not be used for council's administrative or business costs.

To learn more about the fund and to apply visit www.cluthadc.govt.nz/mayoral-relief