Stepping up to help

Applications for assistance to the Kowhai Youth Trust have nearly doubled over the past financial year, rising from 29 approved applications in the 2024/25 financial year to 55 in the 2025/26 financial year.

Requests for assistance come from families with children attending schools across the area, including Kaipara Flats, Warkworth, Snells Beach, Leigh, Matakana and Horizon primary schools, Mahurangi College, as well as homeschooling families.

Trust representative Julie Jones said that, as financial pressure on households continues to grow – whether through a parent losing their job or a family facing illness – the Trust helps ensure children do not miss out on opportunities such as school camps, uniforms and healthcare appointments.

“Local schools are now getting behind the Trust by holding mufti days, where students swap their uniforms for free dress in exchange for a gold coin donation, with all funds staying within the community to support local children,” Jones said.

“Snells Beach and Matakana Primary Schools were the first to hold mufti days, launching the initiative last term.

We’re also in discussions with other local schools about taking part, and we hope more will join over time, making it a regular event.”

The trust will soon launch a programme inviting a select group of local businesses to become ongoing supporters, helping ensure that no young person in the area misses out on the opportunities they need.

Businesses interested in getting involved early and helping shape the partnership are encouraged to contact Trust Chair Ken Bogue directly at info@kcyt.org.nz.

Applications for assistance and donations to the Kowhai Youth Trust can be made via the Trust’s website at https://kcyt.org.nz.