Middle Districts Lions Club Charitable Trust
Community Grants
Supporting activities that make a difference in Palmerston North and the surrounding community.
Annual grants
Three funding rounds each year
As a registered charitable organisation, Lions improve the lives of millions of people through our eight pillars of service: Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian, Hunger, Vision and Youth.
Grant applications are reviewed and approved or declined three times a year. We also have the flexibility to review small grants (under $1,000) in the month they're submitted, at the Trust's discretion.
Criteria overview
What we look for
The Middle Districts Lions Club (MDLC) Community Needs & Grants programme supports our local and surrounding Palmerston North community by funding suitable activities. Please read the criteria carefully – feel free to mention any of these points in your application.
Grant criteria
Our first priority is our eight pillars – Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian, Hunger, Vision and Youth – and these receive priority.
By applying, you agree that MDLC may use your details to assist with your application, and a committee member may contact you to discuss your request.
Information we need
- Applications must use the forms supplied, with every question answered fully and accurately. Extra information is encouraged.
- Is the activity already supported by a local, regional or international body? Please name them and any financial contribution.
- Are you seeking help from other service clubs, churches or sources? Who, and how much?
- What have you already done to provide for your project?
How we assess applications
- Benefit to Palmerston North and the wider community
- Value to MDLC's reputation
- Ability for MDLC to engage in the project
No payments are made directly to individuals – only to a recognised organisation or supplier of goods and services.
Ready to apply?
Complete our online application form, or download a hard copy.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How many funding rounds are there each year?
Three four-month terms, closing at the end of February, June and November.
When will we know the outcome?
By the end of the month following the closing date – for example, the end of March, July or December.
When are grants under $1,000 reviewed?
At the end of each month from January to November (there are no reviews in December), with the outcome advised by the end of the following month.
What is the current success rate of applications?
In 2023/24, 15 of the 21 applications received were approved (71% successful), with an average grant of $10,000.
Who have you given grants to?
Our grants support a wide range of causes in our community, including:
| Gillies McIndoe cancer research | $30k |
| Palmerston North Hospital Foundation | $25k |
| Ronald McDonald House, Wellington | $22.5k |
| Arohanui Hospice | $18.7k |
| Disaster relief – Cyclone Gabrielle | $10k |
| The Globe | $10k |
| Manawatū Scottish Society | $9k |
| Big Brothers Big Sisters | $5k |
| Grassroots Helicopter Services | $5k |
| Samaritans | $5k |
| SnapBack Gym | $2.5k |
| Special Olympics | $2k |
| Ross Intermediate School | $1.5k |
| A laptop for a disabled child's mother | $1k |
| Free mini golf passes for children's education programmes | $1k |
What criteria do Lions use when selecting grants?
Lions favour (although not exclusively) applications focused on Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian, Hunger, Vision and Youth.
What is the maximum amount Lions will approve?
Lions reserve the right to decide whether to grant the full amount requested or part of it. Grants range from $1k to as much as $30k, depending on worthiness, demand and the funds available at the time.