The social and services hub, expected to be completed mid next year, will provide access to multiple services focused on family support, with different agencies working from the centre.

The Unison Group, in partnership with Gifford Devine and Partners have made a donation that will allow the Plunket team to purchase equipment to fit out the centre.

Unison Group chief executive officer Ken Sutherland agreed supporting the local community was a necessary part of sustaining growth for the Bay. "We believe our donation will be very well served for the benefit of our community''''s people," he said.

"Plunket is a vital national service, and is unequivocally important to our community here in Hawke''''s Bay. Both Unison and Gifford Devine are delighted to help Plunket, and to support with funds for the fit-out of the new centre."

There have been other generous donations, and a share of the proceeds from the Napier Host Lions Club''''s Christmas Cracker variety show, running at Tabard Theatre in Napier from December 15 to 17, will go towards the Centre.

The Hawke''''s Bay Literacy Association has donated $750 worth of books for parents and children to enjoy on future visits.

Plunket project leader Alison Prins said they were thrilled at the support, especially in the tough economic times. "It is heartening they share our vision and are investing in the future of the community - we really appreciate their generosity."

A $268,589 grant from the Lottery Communities Facilities Fund will help with construction costs of the Plunket Centre in Onekawa, Napier which will cost $1.3m to build.

The centre still needs the support of the community for more funds to ensure the centre is fitted out and able to offer a full range of services to the region''''s families.