The Government is providing $3 million funding to help disabled people around New Zealand stay connected and access support in their communities.

The one-off seed funding will allow disability service providers to develop digital and community-based solutions over the next two years for disabled people impacted by COVID-19.

'I am pleased to announce that 16 organisations will receive funding for initiatives that help disabled people to access support, be independent and keep in touch with their friends and whānau in innovative and sustainable ways,” says Minister for Disability Issues Carmel Sepuloni.

'There is also a strong focus on initiatives that encourage community participation, which is vital for disabled people's wellbeing and sense of belonging.

'There are many amazing initiatives – from helping people with dementia to create their own digital story book of memories, to online dance and music workshops for disabled people in rural areas, and online spaces for matching disabled people to mentors and volunteers.

'I'm really excited to see this support for our disability community across New Zealand and how it's going to help as our response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues,” says Sepuloni.

Some of the organisation that will receive funding are StarJam, Autism NZ, IHC NZ and YES Disability Resource Centre.

This seed funding is part of the government's response during the first lockdown for disabled people, which was allocated for the 2021 financial year.