Trustpower's Community Fund, aimed at supporting Tauranga's hardest working folk, it's volunteers and community organisations, is currently open for applications throughout March.

This is the second year of the newly-formed fund, with money being donated to community organisations and groups throughout Tauranga.

Last year, $30,000 was given out to 22 groups, meaning plenty of different causes and people were supported by the fund.

'The fund is extra special in that way, as it's linked to our people and core values as a business,” says Trustpower's community and communications advisor Ash Cleaver.

'Values such as manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga guide us in deciding which groups are successful.

'In the November we had eight groups that stood out; Bellyful, BOP Shoebox Christmas, Children's Therapy Garden, Evolocity, Grief Support Services, Maternity Ward, Tauranga American Football Club and Under the Stars, each receiving funding towards their projects.”

'The idea behind these funds is to support the local communities where many of our people work, live and play, while also providing a hands-on experience for our staff to give back to the community.”

This round there is $10,000 up for grabs and applications are open through till 5pm, 31 March.

For more information or to download an application form head to: trustpower.co.nz/taurangafund

Trustpower will run the fund three times a year, with funding rounds open for the months of March, July and November.