17th July 2024: The Ireland Funds, the global philanthropic network, has awarded $1,000,000 to 93 organisations in 29 counties across the island of Ireland. This funding, through the Heart of the Community Fund grant round, will support a diverse group of initiatives that provide critical services and strengthen communities.
Made possible by generous philanthropic gifts and fundraising events of The Ireland Funds America, the largest chapter of The Ireland Funds, these grants exemplify the power of collective giving.
Caitriona Fottrell, President & CEO of The Ireland Funds, said: “We recognise the significant challenges organisations face, especially in meeting core and operational costs. It is our aim that the Heart of the Community Fund fuels organisations to continue their essential work within communities. We are deeply grateful for the steadfast generosity of our donors, which continues to bolster crucial initiatives across the island of Ireland.”
The Heart of the Community Fund strategically supports non-profits under The Ireland Funds’ four funding pillars: Arts and Culture, Community Development, Education, and Peace and Reconciliation. Emphasising community integration and inclusion, this fund prioritised projects that centred around belonging and organisations addressing youth and family support needs.
Impact in the Republic of Ireland
In the Republic of Ireland, 66 organisations will receive grants, including:
Liquid Therapy (Donegal): Provides surfing and ocean-based programmes to young people with disabilities.
Kinaffe National School (Mayo): In an area of disadvantage in East Mayo, this school is a hub for local, International Protection Applicants and displaced Ukrainian children.
Roscommon Women’s Network (Roscommon): Supports women and families throughout the county, focusing on the most marginalised and hard to reach.
Lámh (Carlow): Develops, promotes and maintains Lámh signs, used by children and adults with intellectual disability and communication needs in Ireland.
Impact in the Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, 27 organisations will benefit from the funding, such as:
Peace Players International NI (Antrim): uses sport to unite young people across traditions in Northern Ireland.
WOMEN’STEC ( Antrim): Empowers vulnerable women and girls through training and skill development.
PIPS Hope & Support (Down): Offering resources and support to those affected by suicide.
Politics in Action (Antrim): Young people from cross-community backgrounds work together to identify issues of concern and build shared solutions.
Ederney Community Development Trust (Fermanagh): Addresses the challenges caused by rural isolation and social deprivation.
Margaret Reilly, Principal, Kinaffe National School, said; “The generous funding provided by The Ireland Funds will be instrumental in creating a supportive and inclusive environment for refugee children at our school. Through comprehensive counselling, play therapies, sports training, and educational support, we have made significant strides in helping these children integrate into their new community. We remain committed to continuing this important work and are deeply grateful for the ongoing support that makes it possible. Thank you to The Ireland Funds for its continued trust and investment in our mission.”
This year’s Heart of the Community Fund is a testament to the enduring commitment of The Ireland Funds and its supporters. By providing timely funding, these grants will enable non-profits to address pressing community needs and create a lasting impact on the lives of many.
