Newry groups hit the jackpot with lottery funding boost

Donaghmore Development Association is using a £20,000 grant over one year to make improvements to the kitchen in their hall so that it is more accessible for local groups to use. Work will include new units and worktops and new flooring.

Legananny Accordion Band, based outside Rathfriland, is using a £19,900 grant over 18 months to make improvements to their hall to make the building more accessible for the community to use. Work will include replacing flooring and addressing damp and wet rot.

Magnet Young Adult Centre is using a £6,559 grant over one year to run a support group for young mums aged 16 – 21. The project will provide opportunities to share experiences, learn from each other and create a peer support network.

St Monica’s Boxing Club, based in Newry, is using a £19,995 grant over one year to run an addiction recovery programme in partnership with Cuan Mhuire Rehabilitation Centre. The project will use physical activity, mental wellbeing and lifestyle management to support men in their recovery, increase their self-esteem and build new connections.

Swallows Women’s Group, based near Newry, is using a £10,635 grant over two years to run a programme of activities, including crafts, fitness, archery, mindfulness and gardening. The project will bring women together to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation and learn new skills.

This funding comes as part of the latest announcement of over £6 million of grants from The National Lottery Community Fund, to provide support and services to local people across Northern Ireland, to improve their lives.

People across Northern Ireland can apply for grants of between £300 and £20,000 for environmental projects through The National Lottery Awards for All programme.

Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland Director of The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “Congratulations to all the groups receiving funding and carrying out vital work to improve the lives of people in Northern Ireland communities.

“We are continuing to deliver on our strategy, ‘It starts with community’, with several programmes open for applications to support those in need. Please contact us if you would like advice on which funding would best suit your project idea.”