The Lion Foundation returned over $699,000 in grants for community groups in Whanganui last year.
Notable grants were $50,000 towards a new local ambulance for St John, $25,000 to Whanganui Safe and Free, $25,000 to Carlton School, $25,000 to Netball Whanganui and $15,000 to Family Support Services Whanganui.
Other recipients included the Whanganui Rugby Union, Hospice Whanganui, Age Concern Whanganui, Whanganui Volunteer Centre and the Wanganui Sports Foundation.
Overall the Lion Foundation returned $37.8m, provided in 2882 grants to charities, schools, community groups and sports clubs across the country.
Head of partnerships at the Lion Foundation Marcus Reynolds said he was happy with the result given the increase in demand for money.