City Mission History

We can trace our roots back to 1970 when the Mothers’ Union approached the Vestry of All Saints Palmerston North to request help for the care of elderly parents. Since then, through the efforts of many dedicated and caring people, the Anglican Social Work Trust (Friendship Centre) was formed, becoming an independent charitable trust (no CC32576) on 30 June 2008.  The Friendship Centre has served the senior members of our community well with up to 100 seniors attending the events at any one time.

Like the rest of the country our city is experiencing the challenges brought about by societal changes over the past decade with a rise in poverty, homelessness and mental health problems. The good news is that many community and social service organisations have risen up to provide help.

Unfortunately there are individuals who are unable to access this help and towards the end of 2018 the trust board decided to widen its scope and profile to meet this need. To reflect this wider community focus the trust re-branded and became the City Mission Palmerston North on 8 March 2019.

Since 2019 the trust has expanded significantly to include parenting support groups, English language support for former-refugees and regular community events like Christmas in the City, Beat Girls Concert and a Vicky Lee Concert. In 2023 we appointed a full time City Missioner Franco Vaccarino and we are excited about what is to come!