Eastern Bay Energy Trust supports Baptist Church hall project

Completion of a new Opotiki Baptist Church hall is a step closer, following a grant of just over $52,000 from the Eastern Bay Energy Trust.

Chairman of the Baptist Church Elders, Ian Peterson says the funding is very gratefully received, and every donation inspires others to support the staged project, which will create a venue to accommodate many activities, including youth and senior’s programmes, Girl’s Brigade, Youth Justice and Family Group Conferences.

“There is a large number of very responsive young people in our community who are looking for security, truth and a meaning in life.  The timing is definitely right for us to be providing a space for a lot more programmes to meet our community’s need.”

The $52,151 grant to the Opotiki Baptist Church, which is for kitchen appliances, insulation and fire security, was among three approved by the Eastern Bay Energy Trust in August.  The Taneatua Volunteer Fire Brigade received $9,743.79 towards heat pumps and an instant hot water supply for tea and coffee, to make the Taneatua Hall more comfortable and user-friendly. The Kiwi Junior Rugby League Festival, to be held in Whakatane between 16 – 18 September received $2,000 towards the hireage of a public address system.