Eight Kildare projects to receive funding of €1.247m from Community Centre Fund says Minister

Kildare Community projects have been successful in a new round of funding to upgrade Community Centres confirmed by my colleague Minister Heather Humphreys today. A total of €1,247,063 has been allocated to Kildare projects including Newbridge Family Resource Centre, ADAL in Allenwood, Monasterevin Community Centre and Down Syndrome Ireland. 

“Community Centres are at the heart of all of our local communities and provide a diverse range of services for all ages in the community.  This dedicated community funding will reach many local rural areas and is a real boost to the many committees and volunteers who keep these centres going all year round.

“Funding of €300,000 for Newbridge Family Resource Centre will fund phase 1 of a single story multi-use building alongside a new coffee dock, an accessible toilet and consultation room. The family resource centre in Newbridge is an integral part of the town’s community, catering for all from the cradle to the grave. Ellen Duggan, Brian McQuaid and the team including Secretary Cllr Peggy O’Dwyer do invaluable work for the community through the many groups associated with the centre.

“€300,000 is also allocated to ACDAL Allenwood which offers hot-desking, collaborative office spaces and purpose built childcare facilities. This funding will be used to enhance the main building which is a vital asset to the great local community in Allenwood. Working with my colleague, Cllr. Brendan Wyse, we have pushed for this funding in what is a crucial local community and enterprise hub.

“Monasterevin Community Centre will receive €150,132 to refurbish the facilities alongside the development of a new office hub on the first floor with 6 hot desks, a tea room and reception area.  The inclusion of hot-desking spaces will ensure that Monasterevin is a stronger, self-sustained community.  Working with Cllr. Kevin Duffy we have fought for this investments in Monasterevin. Well done to the voluntary committee who have driven the refurbishment of this fine building down through the years.

“Kildare branch of Down Syndrome Ireland will receive €89,775 to be used to replace an existing  cabin with a modern unit which will be fully insulated, with fitted kitchen and bathroom, double glazed windows new wiring and plumbing.

“This Kildare funding is part of a national allocation of over €33 million for the upgrade and development of 278 Community Centres nationwide. The announcement under the new Community Centre Investment Fund represents the largest ever capital investment in upgrading Community Centres and sees grants of between €25,000 to €300,000 provided to successful projects.

“I want to compliment and congratulate all local groups who manage and operate these great local facilities in Kildare.  Working with my team of local Councillors we have advocated for these projects and look forward to seeing this funding bring improvements to the facilities in the near future," concluded Minister Heydon.

Kildare Projects

Nas na Riogh Housing Association - 23,156

Clane GAA - 25,000

Rathmore Youth and Community Centre - 59,000

Down Syndrome Ireland - 89,775

Family Resource Centre - 300,000

Naas Sports Centre,

Caragh Group - 300,000

Monasterevin Community Centre - 150,132

Allenwood ACDAL - 300,000