Four Groups Successful with Community Activities Grants

Four local voluntary groups received grants under the Community Activities Fund , co-ordinated by the Dept of Community and Rural affairs recently. 

The Town Hall, Town Band, Social Services and Ballinasloe Care and Repair all received funding under the new initiative that aims to provide small grants for community groups impacted by the pandemic.

The funding was brought about to give a helping hand to the smaller groups and facilities at grassroots level by supporting them to continue their important work on the ground. Galway County Council invited community groups to apply for funding at the start of the year and the four groups were recently informed that their applications were successful.

​The Town Hall secured €4,500 under the Fund. The funding which was under two strands will support the Hall’s essential running costs. The committee also intends to upgrade the Cyclorama on the stage to allow for projections that are being used increasingly in place of physical sets.​

The Town Band were allocated €2,500 Grant Aid which will be put towards the cost of insurance and the purchase of new equipment for their members.

Ballinasloe Social Services in Brackernagh received €1,500. Teresa Coughlan, Director of Social Services stated: “From the funding, we were able to purchase a Sara Steady Aid.  This piece of equipment encourages those using it to fully participate in transfers, thus improving circulation, breathing, digestion and muscle tone.  It provides support for those to continue to attend our day services, who previously may not have been able, due to reduced or little mobility.  It also enables us to provide a day service to new referrals who previously may not have been suitable to attend due to the high level of support needed. The feedback from our clients who have used the Sara Steady is very positive.”

The Ballinasloe Care and Repair team were awarded €2,000 which will enable them to cover insurance costs of their van and keep it on the road. The group is a free service that helps to keep people living in their own homes in increased safety and comfort. Volunteers carry out DIY work for older people free of charge.
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The grants are due recognition for these groups whose efforts throughout the pandemic were immense and were vital to maintaining community spirit and resilience during the difficult times.  ​