Toi Ora launches relocation funding appeal

8 April 2009
An art auction, funding applications, and private and corporate donations are some of the ways that Toi Ora Live Art Trust in Auckland hopes to raise $40,000 to meet the final costs associated with its move into new and improved premises.

This week, Toi Ora Live Art Trust moved down the road from 19 Pukiti St into 6 Pukiti St in Grey Lynn and also launched its relocation funding appeal.

A creative space for people with experience of mental ill heath, it has experienced continued growth since 2005. There are 320 artists registered with Toi Ora and more than 100 people enrolling in its programmes every term.

Manager Erwin van Asbeck says the increased demand for Toi Ora services made it increasingly difficult to deliver high-quality programmes and classes.

“Moving into our new premises means we’ll be able to diversify and broaden our programmes,” he says. “It will provide a purpose-designed interior for all our members and the community to enjoy.

“Along with disability access and facilities, the space is very conducive to arts practice with good light and ventilation. It will also be an attractive venue for exhibitions and to hire out to other community groups.”

Toi Ora has raised $75,000 towards the relocation project, thanks to two grants from the ASB Community Trust. The landlord has also committed to 50 per cent of the total building expenditure of the project.

Erwin says donors may wish to support a specific item, project or course: for instance, the cost of high-quality art materials for one year.
 
“This has been a long-awaited and vital step in Toi Ora’s growth and development,” Erwin says. “Anyone wishing to support us can be sure their contributions will be used wisely and effectively so we can continue to provide high-quality services to people with experience of mental illness.”