On 25 October, Presbyterian Support Otago held our 110th Annual General Meeting.
In addition to reporting on the activities, achievements and financial results of 2016, Board Chairman David Richardson, and Chief Executive Gillian Bremner took the opportunity to reflect on the role Presbyterian Support has played in our community over the past 110 years.
“Presbyterian Support Otago was formed 110 years ago as a result of deep concern for children in need” said Ms Bremner.
“Whilst we have not wavered from that core driver, we have, over the decades, expanded our services to include families, community and older people” she said.
Throughout our history, volunteers and community support have been essential to our work. 2016 was particularly special for our volunteers. In recognition of the great work they do, Presbyterian Support Otago won the supreme award at the 2016 Trustpower Dunedin Community Awards in April. The impressive perpetual trophy was on display at the meeting.
Mr Richardson, Board Chairman, spoke of developments in our Enliven services for older people. He acknowledged the great work of the Enliven team in achieving the Ministry of Health’s highest quality standard across six of our seven care homes.
“Presbyterian Support Otago is the only residential aged care provider in the South Island to hold such a high standard of service across so many facilities” he said.
He also spoke of increasing demand for Family Works social services and the growing gap in New Zealand between people living comfortably and those who are struggling.
“Insufficient income, housing affordability and emotional stress are having an increasingly negative impact on the wellbeing of people in Otago”, he explained.
The financial position of our organisation was also reported, with Corporate and Finance Committee Chair, Ray Macleod, noting the important contribution donations and investment income make to Presbyterian Support’s ongoing viability.
“Without this income, we would not be reporting a modest surplus this year, but rather a deficit of more than $200,000” he said.
Copies of Presbyterian Support Otago’s 2016 Annual Report are available from 407 Moray Place Dunedin, or download it here.
