There’s no doubt, the impact of the current COVID-19 community outbreak is being felt in our communities across Otago; adding to the load for many and bringing fresh challenges. Our staff are always available for any enquiries community groups have and we wish to remind everyone of our response at each of the different Alert Levels.

We are currently at Alert Level 2 and our response at this level is outlined below:

• Otago Community Trust office open for staff only
• External visitors to office permitted by appointment only
• Contact tracing required when entering office
• Staff available for external meetings where social distancing rules can be adhered to
• External community engagement face to face continues where social distancing rules can be adhered to
• Meeting via the phone or video conference encouraged
• Funding clinics continue where social distancing rules can be adhered to.

Our reponse to each Alert Level are outlined below. 

Funding Questions

What should we do if we have changes to approved grants?

We understand that the developing situation may affect some organisations ability to deliver some or all of the outcomes intended when you applied for funding.

If you have been approved a grant from us, we recognise your organisation may have incurred costs for programmes and events which are unable to go ahead.

We also recognise some projects, programmes or events may be postponed or delayed.

Please let us know if your organisation is having to make changes to planned activities due to COVID-19.

What should we do if our organisation now can't deliver our project, programmes, or event?

We know that at this point in time things can be up in the air and that some organisations will be able to move their services and programmes online, and others will need to postpone or cancel events or programmes.

Should your organisation have any pressing questions or concerns regarding a grant we encourage you to connect with us via the following means initially:

- by email info@oct.org.nz

- by phone 0800 10 12 40  

- by specific staff emails or DDI's