A number of Wicklow community and other groups are to receive funds under the Government’s Community and Voluntary Energy Support Scheme.
Details of funding to support 180 community and voluntary groups nationwide were were announced byMinister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister of State, Joe O’Brien TD.
Among the successful Wicklow applicants to receive funding are the following groups in County Wicklow:
Ballywaltrim Community Centre Ltd | €1,979 |
Newtownmountkennedy Community centre | €1,943 |
Wicklow Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals | €825 |
Avoca Community Hall Company Ltd | €772 |
Arklow Cancer Support Ltd | €676 |
Ashford Development Association CLG | €369 |
Councillor Tommy Annesley, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, welcomed the announcement of funding for the county saying it was a vital “shot in the arm” for communities across the county.”
Chief Executive, Mr. Brian Gleeson, said it was a very welcome assistance for community groups given the increase in energy costs.
Mr. Michael Nicholson, Director of Services for Community, Cultural and Social Development, stated that the funding would be of great benefit to local communities and community groups and welcomed the extension of the scheme until 20th January 2023.
The Community and Voluntary Energy Support Scheme (CVESS) was launched in response to the rising cost of energy and the impact it is having on the sector. Under the initiative, small grants are being provided to community groups, development associations, and volunteer-led organisations.
The scheme remains open for applications until January 20th, 2023 with further tranches of funding set to be announced in the coming weeks.
Announcing the first round of successful applicants, Minister Humphreys said: “With Christmas less
than a fortnight away, our voluntary and community sector continues to play a crucial role in towns and villages the length and breadth of the country.
“This new scheme is about easing the pressures that our voluntary and community groups face in terms of their energy costs. The grants may be small in nature, but they will important all the same in helping to pay an electricity bill or keeping premises warm during this particularly cold period”.