Youth projects in disadvantaged communities urged to apply for grants.

 I am urging youth services working with disadvantaged communities to apply for a share of the €500,000 in grants announced today.
“The announcement of this funding for small to medium capital grants to youth projects in disadvantaged communities is very welcome. These grants can be used to improve facilities which are of such vital importance in communities where young people rely heavily on the intervention of youth workers and volunteers in their day –to –day lives. The money can be used for replacing or upgrading computer facilities, furnishings or sports equipment and applications are open from today Nov 3^rd, with details on the application process available on www.dcya.gov.ie
The Capital funding scheme for small to medium capital grants is open to applications from Department of Children and Youth Affairs funded projects under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme (SPY), Youth Information Centres (YICs), Young People’s Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF) and Local Drugs Task Force (LDTF) (21 mainstreamed projects). As a once-off exceptional measure the scheme is also open to a number of national youth organisations.

Many youth projects operate on very tight budgets and rely heavily on the assistance of volunteers. The importance of the contribution of these volunteers cannot be overstated and in making this funding available the Government is acknowledging the wonderful work which goes on all over the country in disadvantaged communities.  There will be further funding available early in 2015 for capital projects related to health and safety improvements in premises used by youth groups, including grants for improved disability access.”