Le Va has announced the 11 community organisations receiving collective funding of more than $1million from the Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund for 2023.
Senior Manager for Pacific suicide prevention Leilani Clarke says the fund supports Pacific communities to create innovative, safe and culturally relevant solutions to help prevent and respond to suicide.
“It’s encouraging to see our groups exploring new approaches, new ideas and new connections with the calibre of applications we see each year,” Leilani adds.
Le Va, a Pacific-led non-government organisation, administers the Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund on behalf of Te Whatu Ora, with a rigorous selection process led by Leilani, and supported by an external panel.
The organisation also delivers two national suicide prevention programmes – FLO: Pasifika for Life, aimed at Pacific people, and LifeKeepers, for all New Zealanders.
Chief Executive of Le Va Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave says while specialist services provide a vital role, families are critical in supporting someone in the early stages of distress.
“We must equip our communities with the knowledge, skills and confidence to prevent suicide,” Denise says.
“I wish all the successful recipients a heartfelt congratulations and all the best with their projects.”
With a mission of igniting communities and creating change, Le Va takes an evidence-based approach to its work spanning suicide prevention, mental health and addiction, disability, public health, violence prevention, and youth wellbeing.
This year, Le Va is celebrating its 15-year anniversary.
The recipients of the Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund for 2023 are:
Visit the Le Va website for more information.