The Ireland Funds, the global philanthropic network, has opened applications for its 'Heart of the Community Fund' 2022, which will provide funding in response to the needs of not-for-profit organisations across the island of Ireland.
The fund of at least €500,000 is open for applications from 17th October - 2nd November. €17,500 in funding was awarded to Cork-based organisations by the fund in 2021.
As part of the Heart of the Community Fund 2022, The Ireland Funds hosted an in-person workshop in Cork at UCC's Aula Maxima on Monday, 24 October.
The initial Heart of the Community Fund which was launched in 2021, has provided support to numerous organisations in Cork including Carrigaline Family Support, a family support centre which tries to holistically approach the wellbeing of families, to deliver play, art, and talk therapy interventions for the most vulnerable individuals in their community.
The fund has also supported Bandon Athletic Club, a community athletics club which has one of the largest juvenile memberships in the country. The funding enabled Bandon A.C. to presume their Fit4Life programme while adhering to Covid-19 guidelines.
The Heart of the Community Fund 2022 will continue to respond to the sector by encouraging organisations to present their unique needs, be that operational or programmatic support. The Ireland Funds will also place a particular focus on supporting applications that focus on an organisation investing in its own sustainability. Awards will be offered in three tiers - €5,000, €10,000 and €20,000.
The Ireland Funds is strategically positioned within the non-profit sector and is able to swiftly identify and prioritise vital areas for the fund including food distribution; disability support; domestic and child abuse; elderly services; access to education; mental health and community support.
Siobhán Gallagher, Executive Director of The Ireland Funds, said: "The Ireland Funds is proud to have supported Ireland's non-profit sector, North and South, with funds of €414,000 through the Heart of the Community Fund to date. The generosity of The Ireland Funds donors highlights the network of people around the world that continue to support these extraordinary organisations across the island of Ireland, offering vital supports to those who need it most."
For more information on The Ireland Funds Heart of the Community Fund 2022 and to register for application workshops, visit - https://www.irelandfunds.org/grants/
