The Acorn Foundation opened its annual funding round this week, with a record level of funding expected to be available later in the year.

'Last year we distributed $580,000 to community groups across the Western Bay," says Operations Manager Margot McCool. "This year we expect that figure to be closer to $700,000, thanks to the amazing generosity of our donors.”

Money gifted through Acorn is pooled and invested forever, with the invested income being used to support charities and community groups across the region, in accordance with donors' wishes.

About half the money distributed has been specified by donors, and Acorn allocates the balance based on priorities identified by its Vital Signs research report.

'Vital Signs provides us with evidence based research to tell us where local people think the need is greatest,” says Margot. 'It gives us a really clear steer for prioritising our funds.”

This year's priorities include organisations that are building stronger, safer communities and neighbourhoods, supporting children and young people to develop skills to cope with challenges in life, reducing drug and alcohol abuse and domestic violence, and programmes that address social inequalities.

Organisations considering applying to Acorn for funding should first check the website at acornfoundation.org.nz for full details. Preliminary applications close on May 12.