Ellesmere Community Care Organisation (ECCO) is based in Leeston and covers the area between the Selwyn and Rakaia Rivers; west to Dunsandel and east to the Rakaia Huts.

ECCO is a volunteer and not for profit charitable organisation. Our main activity is transporting people in Ellesmere to appointments when they have no other means of transport available. A suitable donation, if possible, is appreciated for these drives to cover the cost of the vehicle use. All drivers are police vetted.

We work closely with other care groups and organisations to ensure Ellesmere residents have the help they need, when they need it. We provide confidential, friendly services which include, but are not limited to:

• Driving to appointments (mostly medical related)
• Emergency food
• Family assistance
• Help with form filling
• Practical help for a variety of situations or referral to other agencies as appropriate e.g. budgeting, counselling, mentoring etc.