About the community group/organisation/individual 

The Southland Multiple Sclerosis Society was established in 1965, and is now one of 18 regional societies throughout New Zealand. 

The non-profit organisation provides on-going support to people with progressive neurological conditions, including Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease, and their families. 

Services on offer range from advocacy, education, a drop-in centre and support groups to running therapeutic and recreational activities, equipment loan and hire and more. 

At present, the society has about 350 members, but support is also offered to the members’ families. 

Manager Rachel Hucklebridge said the priority for the society for 2019 was “inclusiveness”, finding ways to help its members become more included and involved in the community. 

 What the grant went towards 

ILT Foundation provided Southland Multiple Sclerosis Society with a grant of $17,500 towards social work and occupational services to its 360 members, about 180 of whom are based in Invercargill. 

 What the grant means to the community group/organisation 

“Like a lot of organisations like this, we don’t have the means to bring in revenue so we rely heavily on grants, community support and our members,” Southland Multiple Sclerosis Society manager Rachel Hucklebridge said. 

“Without the likes of the ILT, we just wouldn’t be here.”