Recipient Stories
Since Acorn began in 2003, our donors have helped us distribute over $19.5M to hundreds of charitable organisations working in the Western Bay of Plenty and scholarship and award winners. Read about some of the groups and individuals that have received Acorn funding below.
Tauranga Community Foodbank
"We have received total funding of more than $198,000 during our relationship with Acorn. In today's market, that would provide more than 14,000 people with four days of food or 168,000 meals.”
Takitimu House: Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness
Takitimu House has been chosen as a recipient by Craigs Investment Partners Christmas Giving Programme six years in a row to support men on their journey toward healing and independence.
University of Waikato Tauranga campus Campus Scholarships 2025
On Thursday 14 March, students from the University of Waikato Tauranga campus celebrated their awards with their friends and family.
Omanu Surf Lifesaving Club: Youth Development
The Karen Pensabene Fund was Omanu Beach Surf Lifesaving's first Acorn donor in 2019. Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving is named in Karen's fund, they receive significant yearly funding.
Waipuna Hospice: Acorn's Largest Recipient
Waipuna Hospice has received $1,034,970 from 20 Acorn donors over the past 17 years.
Owens Scholarships 2024
Mahé shared his grandparents' belief that a good education is important. However, whilst academic ability is important, Bob and Joy Owens were particularly interested in applicants who desire to…
Canteen: CanSurf Waihi Beach
“The financial support we receive from the Roy and Mary McGowan Fund helps Canteen Aotearoa continue to provide its vital support services for rangatahi impacted by cancer."
First FAME Year 13 Performing Arts Scholarship Recipient
Congratulations to Michael van Lieshout, head prefect at Tauranga Boys’ College and talented guitarist.
SPELD NZ: Dyslexia Learning Journey
Emma Pollard uses the specialised skills she learned through SPELD New Zealand to support her dyslexic daughter and others like her.