Offering sustainable support to disabled communities.

Established in 1986, the Kāpiti Welcome Trust was created to address shortcomings in accommodation and service offerings for disabled communities. Ex Trustee Rod Lingard says, “In the late 1980s, many people experiencing some kind of physical disability were living in unacceptable or unsuitable conditions. Many of their parents were concerned about their children’s welfare and how they would be supported once they were gone.”

Supporting mental and physical wellbeing

With this need in mind, the Kāpiti Welcome Trust was established to provide for the wellbeing of people with disabilities through the provision of quality, well-maintained accommodation. The Trust purchased 31 Bluegum Road in 1988 – a section that was divided into 10 lots with nine units constructed. In line with the Trust’s vision to provide for the social and vocational needs of their residents, the premises includes a recreational hall. “This is a hugely beneficial part of the property. It provides the opportunity for residents to connect, make friends and keep active,” says Rod. “It helps to enable participation in the community, which is crucial for sound health and wellbeing for residents.”

Enduring Trusteeship

The homes and their residents are now supported by the MASH Trust, which facilitates more personal support for residents, working closely with them to create employment opportunities and deliver professional and personal development services. Enduring trusteeship In late 2020, the Trustees re-evaluated how they could best serve the needs of both the Trust and the communities they served in the future, and the Kāpiti Disability Support Fund was established in December 2020.

“We made the decision to transfer the Trust to Nikau Foundation to ensure we can keep delivering our founding vision,” says Rod. “We were particularly drawn to Nikau Foundation’s enduring trusteeship offering – It gives us immense confidence that, even in 50 years’ time, our funds will be well cared for and managed and our communities will continue to be supported.”

To donate to the Kāpiti Disability Support Fund, click here.