€500,000 secured by Kildare-based family resource centre to expand its childcare services

A grant worth €500,000 has been secured by a Kildare-based family resource centre in order to allow it expand its childcare services.

The funds, which come from the Building Blocks Extension Grant, have been allocated to Newbridge Family Resource Centre (NFRC).

According to the NRFC, the funding is a "milestone" which "represents a major step forward for families in Newbridge and surrounding areas".

Elaborating more on the effects the funding will have on the centre, its manager, Ellen Duggan, said: "This funding is a game-changer for our community."

"It will allow us to extend our services, welcome more children, and continue to support working families with inclusive, high-standard care tailored to local needs," she added.

GRATITUDE

Ms Duggan also thanked one business to business service who assisted the NFRC in its successful funding application: "We’re incredibly grateful to Yellow Harbour — their guidance, attention to detail made all the difference."

Furthermore, the NFRC thanked to the Minister of Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, and her Department for "recognising the vital role family resource centres play in supporting communities nationwide."

"Special thanks also go to Murphy Design and Build Solutions, as well as the dedicated staff and voluntary Board of Management at Newbridge FRC, whose commitment to community development continues to drive meaningful progress," the NFRC added.

Concluding its announcement, the NFRC asserted that the expansion reinforces its mission to "support families, empower communities, and provide critical services where they are needed most".

According to the NFRC's official website, the aim of the FRC programme is "to combat disadvantage and improve the functioning of the family unit".

The website also said: "Each FRC operates autonomously, working inclusively with individuals, families, communities and both statutory and non statutory agencies."

The Mayor of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, Fine Gael councillor Peggy O'Dwyer, used to act as the NFRC's secretary, while another local representative, Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender, currently acts as one of the centre's directors.

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