The project to develop a Mary Potter Hospice community hub in Porirua has received a $100,000 boost from the Hutt Mana Charitable Trust.
Work is under way on the $3 million redevelopment of Te Whare Rānui, in Awatea Street, to provide Hospice services for people from Khandallah to Pukerua Bay. Mary Potter Hospice moved into part of the building in April.
Nick Leggett, a trustee of Hutt Mana Charitable Trust and former Porirua Mayor, says what convinced trustees to get behind the project was the reputation of Mary Potter as a vital service that touches the lives of so many Wellingtonians.
“It’s an institution that helps people through one of the most difficult parts of their lives. We know that this is going to be an important development for Porirua City and North Wellington, and we know it’s going to significantly enhance the lives of clients of Mary Potter Hospice,” Nick says.
“We support a lot of small community organisations and projects with grants that assist their running costs. The opportunity to make a large capital contribution to such a vital project was something that we felt strongly about. We know there is a lot of public support and a lot of people give generously in their private capacity.”
Nick says the region covered by hub will experience big growth in the coming years and Mary Potter Hospice was getting ready for this. “I understand that a big chunk of their patients and whānau are north of Ngaio. This is where the growth is going to be – no doubt about it.”
He says the Trust is pleased to be associated with the project. “We felt as trustees that Mary Potter is making an investment and a contribution to our people.”
The purchase of the building and the land, and the first stage of renovation has already been met by Mary Potter Hospice, but the Hospice needs the community to help raise the final $1 million to complete the fit-out of the building.
Nick has called on other people and organisations to get behind the Hospice. “I think there does need to be a recognition that this will touch upon lives, and we will be encouraging other generous individuals and businesses to consider making a contribution,” he says.
“The Hutt Mana Charitable Trust is at Mary Potter Hospice’s side. We wish them and their team the best with the project.”