Community Groups Across Wicklow Get Grants From Taoiseach

Taoiseach Simon Harris has today announced small grants to benefit community groups across Wicklow

At an event in Tramway Theatre Blessington,Taoiseach Simon Harris praised and celebrated the hard, on the ground work, of hundreds of Wicklow based community groups

149 Wicklow local projects received funding under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024.The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 was launched in December 2023 with funding of €6 million available, which included €1 million in funding ring-fenced specifically to support Women’s Groups. The funding provides capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.The Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme 2024 is administered by Local Community Development Committees, with support from the Local Authority, in each area.

Announcing the successful projects for Co. Wicklow today, Taoiseach Harris said:“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.“I want to congratulate the successful applicants and to thank them for the vital work they do in providing services in our local communities”.“These grants will help hundreds 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.“I’m really delighted that close to 150 organisations in County Wicklow are receiving funding which will go a long way in benefiting so many in the localities.“On top of this 26 Women’s Organisations in County Wicklow are receiving ring-fenced funding as part of the LEP allocation.“Local organisations across County Wicklow breathe positivity, they breathe change, and activity.“The organisations getting funding today fill the gap and address needs that often go unmet.“It is thanks to you that so many feel comfortable in calling their local area: home; because they feel connected through the organisation, the club, the team and so on.“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.I want to congratulate all the groups here this evening, and to thank each of you for the vital work you do in providing services in your local communities.Today’s grants will make a big difference to all involved and I look forward to supporting you in your continued success.