A one-off $50,000 grant has been given to the Student Volunteer Army (SVA) by the Government to support youth volunteers in Nelson Tasman after two consecutive floods hammered the region in two weeks.
Youth Minister James Meager said the grant would help mobilise and coordinate young people to assist with the cleanup.
“The Student Volunteer Army has a strong track record of rallying the troops at speed to respond to urgent need and has vast experience in crisis response and disaster recovery. I know the work its volunteers will undertake will be of enormous community benefit.”
Youth Minister James Meager has announced a $50k grant for the Student Volunteer Army. (Source: 1News)
The $50,000 grant would finance region-wide activities over the next four to six weeks, he said, with activities to be identified from a register of help sought by individuals, families, or communities affected.
“The youth volunteers that participate will be appropriately supervised and have access to mentoring and guidance to support their learning and development while doing this voluntary work. This represents a great opportunity to grow skills and resilience, while giving back to communities in need.”
SVA founder Sam Johnson said involving students and young people in disaster response was “always a good idea”.
“They’re fit, energetic and like to help. It also provides them the opportunity to learn first-hand about the complex issues extreme weather present.”
Assistance had been provided to 50 properties so far, Johnson said.
“We welcome anyone who’d like to volunteer – particularly family groups and retirees.
“I want to thank those who have helped enormously with the region’s recovery efforts so far. I encourage all young people who have seen the devastation and want to help to reach out to the organisation.”
