Grief, loss initiative receives grant

Clutha Foundation administration and relationship supporter Jess Weichler. PHOTO: NICK BROOK

The largest grant ever awarded by the Clutha Foundation will help bring a much-needed grief and loss programme to South Otago, marking a major step in expanding emotional-wellbeing support across the district.

Anglican Family Care received $15,000 to pilot its Oceans Grief & Loss Programme locally — funding foundation administrator Jess Weichler said reflected the foundation’s commitment to health and wellbeing during a cost-of-living crisis that was putting families under pressure.

"With the rising cost of living, many people are doing it tough," Ms Weichler said.

"When money is tight, one of the first things people sacrifice is their health. We want to ensure no-one has to choose between their wellbeing and making ends meet."

Anglican Family Care’s Oceans Grief and Loss programme has received funding from the Clutha Foundation. PHOTO: ALLIED MEDIA FILES

In thanking the foundation, Anglican Family Care general manager Lynette Finnie said the Oceans programme had a successful track record in North Otago and filled a clear gap in rural support services.

"Oceans Grief and Loss is an established programme that has been successfully running in North Otago for the past 10 years," she said.

"Anglican Family Care will be piloting this in South Otago to benefit tamariki, rangatahi and adults who are experiencing grief, loss or significant life changes ... Through the programme, participants are guided by experienced facilitators to develop strategies to cope with loss and change."

Anglican Family Care was still seeking additional funding for a 2026 launch, but said the Clutha Foundation grant had provided crucial momentum.

The Oceans grant was supplemented by pass-through support from the Pannett family.

"For us, supporting the Oceans programme is about ensuring no-one feels alone in their grief, as everyone needs and deserves access to dedicated grief support during one of life’s most challenging times," a family representative said.

The foundation also awarded $3300 to the Southern Cancer Society to provide grocery and petrol vouchers for Clutha patients facing financial strain during treatment.

"We are so grateful to Clutha Foundation for their generous grant of $3300 to support cancer families across the Clutha District," Cancer Society head of funding and marketing Jonet Warhurst said.

"Support like this ensures we can continue to walk alongside families in our community, offering both practical help and hope during one of the toughest times in their lives."

A further $3000 was granted to Friends & Whānau of Stirling School for a new playground.

Ms Weichler said the foundation’s ability to give back was due to local generosity.

"Our ability to give back to the Clutha community is thanks to the generosity of our incredible donors. Their gifts enable us to create a lasting impact that will ripple across the district for generations."

Clutha Foundation 2025 Grants recipients: