The Barnardos Foundation was established in 2023 to help shift the dial for tamariki and whānau where the need is the greatest. By leaving a gift to Barnardos in their Will, supporters can have peace of mind knowing their contributions will fund innovative projects across Aotearoa.

The Foundation aims to:

drive innovation
conduct vital and world-leading research
develop new services and initiatives
improve existing services and programmes to meet needs effectively undertake meaningful and relevant evaluation and analysis
encourage and support new ideas and approaches

The Barnardos Foundation strives to create positive and meaningful change, unlocking the doors to a brighter future for children who need it most. In the last year, the Foundation supported two important projects:

Awhi Tairāwhiti

In April 2023, the Foundation awarded its inaugural grant to Awhi Tairāwhiti, an innovative Barnardos Aotearoa wraparound social support and early learning service in Gisborne. This integrated hub serves as a cornerstone for the community, offering invaluable resources and support for parents and caregivers to navigate the journey of parenthood while nurturing their
child’s development. Through workshops, programmes, and accessible services, Awhi Tairāwhiti embodies the vision of Barnardos Aotearoa of an inclusive Aotearoa where every child’s potential is able to be realised. The grant supports the independent and professional evaluation of Awhi Tairāwhiti, assessing its impact, identifying areas for improvement, and exploring its potential for
replication in other communities.

The Māngere Project

The Māngere Project As highlighted in this report, Barnardos Aotearoa is embarking on a research and inquiry project to better understand the needs, dreams, and aspirations of the Māngere community. Thanks to the Foundation’s second grant, this project will inform the future potential for the Barnardos Aotearoa site at 33 Cape Road, Māngere. The project seeks to answer the question, “What community-based services are needed within the local context to ensure children and families have access to the support they need to thrive?”