Published in the Whakatāne Beacon on 17 July 2026.
Our Women's Impact Fund celebrated a record-breaking year at its annual High Tea and Fund Reveal event held recently at the Whakatāne Surf Life Saving Club.
Donors, trustees and supporters gathered to celebrate the power of collective giving, with a special appearance from East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick. Attendees heard that the fund had reached $54,800 during the event, before a few last-minute donations pushed the total to an impressive $56,000 overnight – the largest fuding pool raised since the Women's Impact Fund was established in 2021.
The Women's Impact Fund is based on a simple but powerful idea: many women contributing a little can collectively create significant and lasting impact. Through the giving circle model, members pool their donations to award at least one substantial annual grant to an innovative project that improves outcomes for women and children across the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Foundation Manager Angela Jackson said the growing support for the fund demonstrates the community's commitment to backing meaningful local change.
"To reach a record $56,000 is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the generosity of women throughout our region. Every contribution matters, and together our members are creating opportunities that would not be possible individually."
Applications for this year's Women's Impact Fund grant will open on 13 July and remain open for one month. Following the application period, a shortlist of projects will be selected and invited to present directly to fund members, who will then decide where the funding is awarded.
Since its inception, the fund has continued to grow in both membership and impact, proving that collective philanthropy can be a powerful force for positive change in the Eastern Bay community.
Click here for more information about the Women's Impact Fund, or to donate.
