Tender Funerals secure $70k grant to expand affordable funeral services

TENDER Funerals Mid North Coast has received a $70,000 funding boost from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation (NPCF), strengthening its mission to provide affordable and community-centred funeral services.

The Wauchope based not-for-profit supports socially disadvantaged individuals and marginalised groups by offering transparency, choice and dignity in after-death care.

General Manager Samuel Clowes said the support will have long-lasting benefits.

“Tender Funerals empowers members of the community in an inclusive manner and recognises their right to participate in the funeral process,” she said.

“On average, each family that utilises Tender Funeral services saves an average of $6,000 per funeral.

“It is estimated that this funding will impact almost 500 people in just one year, particularly in Kempsey and Taree, which will be significant for our local community.”

Alongside funeral services, Tender Funerals delivers education programs aimed at empowering families and communities.

Part of the grant supports the employment of a Project and Outreach Lead to build awareness, engage volunteers and extend services through pop-up offices across the region.

NPCF spokesperson Paul Juergens said the funding is about supporting people at one of the most difficult moments in life.

“Tender Funerals is an integral part of the local community and we are pleased to support them through our shared commitment to social wellbeing,” he said.

“This funding will help Tender Funerals to address the lack of access to affordable and meaningful funerals in regional and remote areas, particularly across the Mid North Coast region.”

The funding also supports the development of a volunteer training program, designed to build local capacity, enhance community connection and ensure compassionate, high-quality funeral services.

By Sis HIGGINS