Bupa Foundation funds local health and sustainability projects

Bupa has revealed the recipients of its 2025 Bupa Foundation Community Grants, awarding approximately $10,000 each to 11 organisations across New Zealand.

The funding aims to advance local projects focused on mental health and environmental sustainability, reinforcing Bupa’s ongoing engagement with community-driven initiatives.

Local groups receive support for mental health and environmental programs

Since 2019, the Bupa Foundation has distributed more than $2.8 million to grassroots groups in both Australia and New Zealand.

The 2025 grants are intended to help organisations implement a range of programs, from youth mentoring and psychoeducation to environmental restoration and digital wellbeing platforms.

Michael Burgess, director of corporate affairs and sustainability at Bupa, said the grants are designed to enable local organisations to deliver practical solutions that address health and wellbeing needs.

“When you pair financial support with the passion, insight, and dedication of local community groups, the results can be transformative. Supporting these organisations is a key part of Bupa’s ambition to support healthier people and planet,” he said.

Details of funded projects

The 2025 grant recipients represent a cross-section of community priorities. Among the funded initiatives:

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rotorua will offer mentoring to children facing adversity.
• Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust will provide assistance to help vulnerable individuals retain their pets.
• Endangered Species Foundation will lead a stream restoration and education project.
• First Foundation will run a career development and mentoring program for secondary students.
• Louise Perkins Foundation will continue its support services for people with advanced breast cancer.
• Manuku Beautification Trust will operate a community project to reduce social isolation.
• Resport Charitable Trust will focus on reusing sports equipment and textiles to reduce landfill waste.
• Skylight Trust will deliver psychoeducation for children aged 7 to 9.
• University of Auckland will research the impact of gardening on social and mental wellbeing.
• Upper Waitemata Ecology Network will implement urban regeneration using sustainable agricultural practices.
• Waipuna Hospice will introduce a digital platform to support staff wellbeing.

Bupa’s broader community engagement

Beyond the Community Grants Program, Bupa maintains partnerships with organisations such as New Zealand Landcare Trust, Paralympics New Zealand, and national sports teams.

These collaborations are part of a broader strategy to support health and sustainability initiatives throughout the country.

The Bupa Foundation, which marks its 20th anniversary this year, has invested over A$40 million in health and wellbeing projects since its establishment.

Originally focused on health research, the foundation has expanded its remit to include mental health, environmental sustainability, and community resilience.

Ongoing focus on health and sustainability

The foundation’s current priorities include building resilient communities and addressing the link between environmental and human health.

The Community Grants Program remains central to this approach, enabling local groups to address specific needs within their communities.

Bupa’s continued investment in these areas reflects its commitment to supporting both people and the environment.

The organisation reports ongoing progress in mental health services, environmental initiatives, and community empowerment, with plans to maintain these efforts moving forward.