In 2007 the community of Putaruru and surrounding districts, strongly recognised the need for a secure, supported living environment for those people living with dementia and other forms of memory loss. Up until now, anyone requiring Level 3 secure care had to leave the local district to receive this care. This move away from their " Home" at Rangiura created a significant amount of upheaval and distress for both the residents and their families alike. Subsquently , in November 2007 the Trust Board made a proposal to the DHB to operate up to 20 beds for people with dementia support needs. This proposal was approved and, in May 2008 a dedicated Fundraising Commttee was formed to help raise $1 million dollars towards this $2.5 million dollar community project.
( Please refer to the Greenhouse Page for more details on this project) .

Many fundraising events have been held over the past two years and support has been extended from every corner of the community, from people of all ages and stages- the committment to this cause has just been overwhelming. We are still striving towards this 1M goal- and despite opening Fern Haven in Dec 2010, we are contuinuing to fundraise to further fund this effort as well as fundraise for other much needed projects and resources. We would love to hear from anyone who can help us with this goal and we gladly accept donations - no matter how big or small. Alternatively if you have any ideas, contacts, goods to donate- please contact our Fundraising Co-ordinator- Gilly Alexander on 0272-899807 or Gaye Lamb, Fundraising Committee Chair , on 07 883-2875 .