Upstream in North Canterbury

10 Mar

Taking a look at who they are and what they do.

Christchurch charity Upstream has raised over $120,000 for youth charities by inventing a new way to generate charitable funding. That’s enough money to fund over 6,900 hours of community work, subsidised counselling, and childhood early intervention services.

Co-founder Mitch Shaw started Upstream as a way to combat New Zealand’s concerning youth mental health statistics.

“Research shows that having positive stakeholders in their lives helps young people work through difficulties they are having,” he says. “One of the biggest barriers is getting funding to make these stakeholders available.”

Upstream’s model means Kiwis can make a difference with their everyday purchases. When someone uses a supplier through Upstream – a business that has chosen to support Upstream – the supplier donates part of their invoice to an Upstream charity of the customers choosing. There’s no extra cost to the customer and over 120 suppliers to choose from, including North Canterbury locals, North Canterbury Business Services, Create Design Studio, Campbell Electrical, SB Autos and Sunnyside Clear Roofing & Shade.

Conductive Education Canterbury General Manager Rebecca Courtney has seen firsthand the impact that Upstream has had on her organisation.

“We can see the contributions coming in and gathering momentum,” Rebecca says. “This is having a direct impact on our programme, and supporting children and families.”

Upstream supports 14 youth charities, including Hope Community Trust, Ta-ima Ko-rero, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Christchurch and Conductive Education Trust.

Mitch Shaw,
Upstream