Cork Community Groups Receive €284,887 in Government Grants for 2025
Cork community groups secure €284,887 in government grants for 2025, supporting projects from minibus purchases to accessibility improvements across all city wards.
Minister of State Jerry Buttimer announced significant funding for Cork City community groups today, with local organisations set to benefit from nearly €285,000 in Local Enhancement Programme grants. The announcement was made at Togher Family Centre, highlighting the vital role community groups play across the city.
The funding forms part of a €7 million national investment in community facilities, with €6 million allocated for capital improvements and €1 million supporting energy and running costs. Cork City's allocation of €284,887 will support community groups across all ward areas, from minibus purchases to accessibility improvements.
Minister of State Jerry Buttimer said:
"The Community and Voluntary Sector have shaped my vision of Community Development over the decades through my strong connections and work with it. Whilst I announce these national Government Grants, in my first year as Minister of State, it is important for me to announce them in the place that shaped that vision, Cork City."
The grants will support diverse projects across the city's wards. Notable recipients include Respond Day Care for Older People in the North East, receiving €10,000 (with HSE match funding) for a minibus purchase. Cork Community Art Link in the North West secured €9,295 for electrical upgrades and fire safety improvements. In the South West, Togher Community Garden received €7,321 for wheelchair accessibility improvements to their polytunnel.
Lord Mayor Dan Boyle commented:
"This is a very welcome announcement today for the many community groups who rely heavily on these annual grants. Community groups across the city make huge impacts on all of our lives day in and day out. This funding compliments their huge efforts to support the people of Cork, especially from disadvantaged communities."
Dr Niamh Sheridan, Director of Togher Family Centre, expressed her pride in hosting the announcement:
"Togher Family Centre was delighted and honoured to host the Minister of State, Jerry Buttimer, T.D. in making this announcement. We pride ourselves on the level of service, care, education and love that is afforded every child, their parents and members of the community who use our centre."
The grants are administered locally by Cork City's Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), working in partnership with Cork City Council. LCDC Chairperson Denis Leamy welcomed the funding scheme, noting how it enables community groups to "develop greater quality community services and build on their work for all of the people of the city".
Rebecca Loughry, Director of Services at Cork City Council's Corporate, Community and Cultural Affairs Directorate, emphasised the collaborative approach:
"Shared National and Local Government funding creates a synergy to enhance community development across the city increasing access to equality and services in our community by those who are best placed to deliver it on the ground."
The Local Enhancement Programme grants complement Cork City Council's own annual Community Development Grants, creating a comprehensive support system for the city's vibrant community sector.
