The James Gibb Fund
No further applications can be accepted.
Applications from Christian parishes operating within the Greater Wellington, Taranaki, Manawatū, Wairarapa, and Whanganui regions were welcomed to apply for funding between September and October 2026.
Supporting Communities Across the Region
Set up in 1989 the James Gibb Fund provides funding for Social and Community projects through Christian Parishes, that align with our purpose: supporting people at the most vulnerable times of their lives to make a lasting and positive difference.
What the Fund Supports
Each year, this fund provides grants for:
- Youth and community outreach programmes
- Community meals
- Youth camps
- Community gardens
- Parenting support
About James Gibb
James Gibb was born in Scotland in 1857. He emigrated to Australia in 1881, before arriving in New Zealand a few years later with his wife, Jane Gibb also known as Jean Gibb.
In January 1886 he was inducted as the minister of First Church of Otago, and in July he was elected moderator of the Presbytery of Dunedin. In 1901, he was elected the first moderator of the newly united Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, and in August 1903 he became the minister of St John’s Church in Wellington.
It was in 1909 Reverend Dr. James Gibb, initiated a project to support vulnerable children in the community, so began Presbyterian Support Central. This was a time when there was no welfare system in New Zealand.
