Photo: RNZ
The Social Investment Agency will prioritise social services working with children of families with complex needs for its first round of funding.
In May, the government announced the $190 million Social Investment Fund, as part of this year's Budget.
Former police commissioner Andrew Coster heads the agency. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The fund is governed by the Social Investment Agency, led by former police commissioner Andrew Coster.
Applications for the first round of funding will open on 25 August.
To qualify, organisations need to be working with one, or more of, the following:
- Children whose parent(s) are currently or have recently been in prison
- Children of parent(s) who experienced the care system
- Children who were stood down or suspended from school when they were 12 or younger
"We know children who have had these experiences are more likely to experience poor outcomes and require significant social support throughout their lives," Coster said.
Three initiatives have already been supported by the fund, including an Autism NZ early screening and intervention scheme, an Emerge Aotearoa youth offending programme, and a Te Tihi o Ruahine wraparound support initiative for families in need.
The fund is expected to invest in at least 20 initiatives in its first year.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
