Eastern Bay Women’s Impact Fund Celebrates International Women’s Day with 2026 Launch and $200,000 Milestone
On March 8th, among the stunning scenery of the Waingarara Event Venue, the Eastern Bay Women’s Impact Fund officially launched its 2026 funding cycle. The event, which coincided with International Women’s Day, served as both a celebration of collective female philanthropy and a powerful look forward at the impact yet to be made in the region.
Since its inception five years ago in 2022, this dedicated giving circle has achieved a remarkable milestone, distributing nearly $200,000 to vital local initiatives for Women and Children in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. By pooling annual donations of $1,000 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, Candice shared an emotional and inspiring speech of her harrowing yet triumphant journey of suffering a stroke as a young mother with small children. Despite facing multiple setbacks that would have sidelined many, Candice chose to continue with grace, eventually walking the Great Wall of China to raise funds for New Zealand families affected by stroke.
"The mission is simple, we unite women who believe in the power of collective giving," says Viv Barr from the Foundation. "Every dollar donated goes toward tangible projects that empower our families and strengthen our community."
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 and support for the Cancer Society. Plunket, Mums4Mums, and Riding for the Disabled. Whakatāne Financial Mentoring Services, Kiwi English lessons, and Tautoko Mai Sexual Harm Support.
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 $1,000 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," says Robyn. "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.
