€140k boost for Waterford sports clubs and community groups
Over 150 Waterford clubs and community organisations are set to benefit from a total of €140,000 in funding under the Local Enhancement Programme.
The funding will provide capital supports essential for the many smaller groups in the county, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.
Tidy Towns groups, sports clubs, resident’s associations, youth groups and more will benefit from the funding, which ranges from €157 to €2,328 each.
Clubs and organisations receiving over €2,000 include 11th Waterford Dungarvan Scout Group, Barrack Street Concert Band, Coolfin Woods Residents Association, Clashmore Kinsalebeg GAA Club, Manor St. John Youth Services, Tycor AFC and Top of the City Community Garden.
Waterford Fine Gael Senator John Cummins has welcomed the news, saying: “Today’s announcement delivered by my colleague Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys is another welcomed boost for many Waterford clubs and community organisations.
“These clubs and organisations are the heartbeat of many communities in Waterford, the funding announced today will ensure they have the funds to make their organisation accessible to all members of the community, offering a place for everyone to enjoy and connect.”
He added, “The funding announced today will help communities at a grassroots level, helping clubs and organisations have the facilities and equipment they need to support the community. This government is committed to supporting local communities, and today’s announcement further displays this commitment.”
Speaking at the announcement Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys stated: “The Local Enhancement Programme is about giving a helping hand to our local groups and clubs, who are the building blocks of Irish community life. These grants will help thousands of community organisations, clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, youth centres and parish halls, to continue to provide their valuable services to the people in their areas.”
Also announcing the successful projects, Minister Joe O’Brien said: “The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 provides vital support to community groups in order to help them improve their facilities. It supports small-scale funding for projects, which range from purchasing IT equipment to minor renovations to buildings.
"Ultimately the programme responds to local needs. These investments allow community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country."
