The National Lottery Community Fund has recently allocated over £200,000 in funding to various organizations in the Newry, Mourne, and Down areas. These grants are designed to foster community cohesion, mitigate the impact of rising living costs, promote mental health and well-being, and nurture social connections. This initiative follows in the footsteps of similar programs across Northern Ireland.
Saintfield Community Association:
Grant Amount: £9,998
Purpose: To establish youth clubs offering engaging activities and skill development opportunities for young people.
Home-Start Down District:
Grant Amount: £152,794
Purpose: Supporting a project focused on providing mental health support to mothers facing additional health needs.
Mind Your Mate and Yourself (MYMY):
Grant Amount: £9,700
Purpose: Covering the running costs of MYMY’s services in Castlewellan, offering early mental health intervention, wellbeing activities, and counseling referrals.
St. Patrick’s Parish Church in Newry:
Grant Amount: £5,995
Purpose: Organizing activities for older community members, including music sessions, exercise classes, day trips, and informative talks.
Creggan Parish Church Creggan Hall Management:
Grant Amount: £9,940
Purpose: Improving the hall’s facilities, including a loop mic system, a sink outlet, and equipment for refreshments. The hall will host a luncheon club, workshops, and cultural seminars.
1st Dromore Newry Scout Group Scouting Ireland:
Grant Amount: £10,000
Purpose: Installing accessible toilets in the hall to enhance inclusivity for young people and volunteers with disabilities.
Newtownhamilton and District Community First Responders:
Grant Amount: £10,000
Purpose: Hosting a community fun day to celebrate their five-year anniversary, focusing on promoting positive mental health and physical well-being.
The National Lottery Community Fund’s generous grants serve as a testament to its commitment to enriching the lives of communities in the Newry, Mourne, and Down areas. These diverse projects, spanning youth engagement, mental health support, community activities, and inclusivity initiatives, reflect a holistic approach to community development. The positive impact of this funding is expected to resonate throughout the region, fostering stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.