In the Western Bay of Plenty, many people like to give to local causes closest to their hearts. The giving culture is an important part of the Kiwi psyche.

But what some people don’t realise is that when they do give, they can also receive a 33.3% tax credit.

The New Zealand tax system offers this tax rebate on charitable donations over $5 (up to the level of income tax paid) as an incentive to promote giving and philanthropy, making it straightforward for donors to reduce their tax paid while simultaneously increasing support for charitable causes and community groups. 

The only catch is that you need to make the donation prior to March 31, which makes now the perfect time to consider what impact you would like to make in this region.

The Acorn Foundation was established in 2003 to connect generous people with causes that matter in our region. 

Since then, they have gifted more than $20M to the community, with over $3.2M distributed last year alone. 

This funding has supported hundreds of charitable organisations that are important to Acorn’s donors and are vital to the region’s well-being.

Over the past couple of years, Acorn has put a real emphasis on the benefits of the Acorn Vital Impact Fund.

Under the Stars received funding from the Vital Impact Fund to continue their work supporting the food needs of the homeless in Tauranga.

Established in 2009 to address the region’s biggest issues, the Vital Impact Fund has now distributed over $174,000 to 34 local charities and community groups.

Acorn Foundation chief executive Lori Luke says the fund shows the power of collective giving.

“We encourage our current donors and those who are in the process of thinking about their charitable giving to consider a gift to the Vital Impact Fund.  

“With its focus on supporting organisations working in the areas of greatest need in our community, this fund allows us to make a lasting impact that will ripple for generations to come.”

The Vital Impact Fund sees all donations pooled and invested, generating investment returns year after year. Each year, the recipients of the fund are selected by Acorn’s volunteer Distributions Committee, with includes representatives from Katikati to Te Puke to ensure Acorn has a solid understanding of our region’s greatest needs. 

Last year the Vital Impact Fund supported seven different organisations which cover a range of food rescue and support, including:

-Tauranga Community Foodbank

-Good Neighbour

-Super Support

-The Hub Te Puke

-Under the Stars

-Ōtūmoetai Social Supermarket

-Kura Kai

Lori says the very essence of community foundations is that small acts of giving can make a big difference.

“Our ability to give back to this region is thanks to the generosity of our incredible donors.  Many people may be working on their plans for the end of the financial year right now and considering their giving goals.  We encourage those people to consider including a gift to Acorn Foundation’s Vital Impact Fund. We call our model smarter giving, and we immensely appreciate the donors who consider this option.” 

To find out more about  the 33.3% tax credit and Acorn Foundations Vital Impact Fund go to https://www.acornfoundation.org.nz/give/give-for-tomorrow/give-vital-impact-fund

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