PowerNet extends partnership of Hato Hone St John programmes
The extension of a partnership between PowerNet and Hato Hone St John will continue to bring significant benefits to mental health, first aid, and community well-being in the Southern Region.
Since 2014, the two organisations have worked together in partnership on initiatives across Southland, Queenstown-Lakes and West Otago and have reached a milestone of $1,000,000 donated by PowerNet to Hato Hone St John. They are now proud to announce that their partnership has been extended to 2026.
To date, the relationship has seen the Hato Hone St John Whātuia te Waiora Weaving Wellbeing programme delivered to more than 2,000 Year 7 and 8 students across 19 Southern schools, empowering young people with mental resilience and coping skills.
PowerNet Chief Executive Jason Franklin says the Whātuia te Waiora Weaving Wellbeing programme, which we are the principal sponsors of, has proven hugely successful and will now be extended to coastal Otago where OtagoNet, an electricity network under PowerNet management, is based.
He explains; “Ensuring the mental well-being of people and communities is an important focus for us. We’re thrilled to continue our sponsorship of Hato Hone St John’s work and to continue partnering and supporting their great work for another three years.”
In addition to the mental health programme, nearly 54,000 Southern tamariki have been trained in injury prevention and emergency readiness through the ASB St John in Schools programme which PowerNet also supports.
Since 2020, PowerNet has also been the principal sponsor of the Hato Hone St John Mental Health First Aid course in the Southern region, equipping nearly 500 people with the skills and knowledge to recognise and respond to someone experiencing mental health concerns.
Southern communities have also benefited with a further 1,500 people being trained in first aid, 17 AEDs gifted to communities, four vehicle charging stations for Hato Hone St John Health Shuttles being donated, and PowerNet supporting the Hato Hone St John Invercargill Training Hub, which holds up to 15 courses each month.
Debbie Zwies, Hato Hone St John Fundraising Manager for the South Island, says the relationship with PowerNet has had a significant and meaningful impact; “Hato Hone St John is dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and resilience of all New Zealand communities. PowerNet shares this vision, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with them to help build a stronger Aotearoa.”