About

Stepping Stone Trust (SST) was formed nearly 30 years ago, by Graeme Reid, QSM as a community ministry of the South West Baptist Church. The aim was to offer a place people affected by mental distress and trauma could go to receive care and support, and be treated with dignity and respect. It was a time of new thinking around how to provide people with a sense of community, citizenship, belonging, and a stepping stone to hope for a better way of life.

From this low-key start, the Trust quickly expanded into providing full residential services. Community support services were also added to assist people transitioning back to independent living, or to remain in their own home.

Now one of the largest mental health service providers in New Zealand, Stepping Stone Trust’s services reach over 500 people each week in the Canterbury and Dunedin regions, through the work of its 250 staff, and several volunteers, all dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

SST is fortunate to receive a large portion of its funding through the Canterbury District Health Board, enabling all services to remain free of charge. 

Click here to see our partners and supporters.

The Trust is thankful to receive additional funding through donations from individuals, companies and community groups, to assist with providing extra resources and developing new services. If you would like to partner with us or make a donation, email accounts@stepstone.org.nz or click Donate to SST.