The Eastern Bay Women’s Impact Fund launched its 2026 funding cycle this month with a function at the Waingarara Valley event venue.

The event, which coincided with International Women’s Day, served as a celebration of collective female philanthropy and a powerful look forward at the impact yet to be made in the region.

Since its inception in 2022, this dedicated giving circle has distributed almost $200,000 to vital initiatives for women and children in the Eastern Bay.

By pooling annual donations of $1000 from generous women across the region, the fund bridges the gap between individual contributions and high-impact transformative grants.

The launch featured a moving keynote from Candice Donner. As a 2025 funding recipient for Waka Eastern Bay, Ms Donner shared an emotional and inspiring speech of her harrowing yet triumphant journey after suffering a stroke as a young mother with small children.

Despite facing multiple setbacks that would have sidelined many, she chose to continue with grace, eventually walking the Great Wall of China to raise funds for New Zealand families affected by stroke.

The Women’s Impact Fund, established under the Eastern Bay Community Foundation by trustees Viv Barr and Robyn Woolsey, has supported a wide range of essential services over the past four years, including: funding for a SOZO machine for early lymphoedema detection, support for the Cancer Society, Plunket, Mums4Mums, Riding for the Disabled, Whakatāne Financial Mentoring Services, Kiwi English lessons and Tautoko Mai Sexual Harm Support.

“The mission is simple, we unite women who believe in the power of collective giving,” said Ms Barr.

“Every dollar donated goes toward tangible projects that empower our families and strengthen our community.”

As the 2026 fund opens, the group is calling for more women to join the circle. Participation is designed to be accessible, with options to share the $1000 contribution or stagger payments throughout the year.

“We are proud of the nearly $200,000 already distributed, but we know there is more work to be done,” said Ms Woolsey.

“We welcome any woman who wants her giving to go further.”

For more information on how to join the 2026 giving circle or to learn about past projects, please visit our website at www.ebcf.nz/womens-impact or contact the foundation office at 021 336 226.