East Antrim youth leaders urged to apply to ‘Thank-You Fund’

Marking a decade of support for youth-orientated non-profit groups across Ireland, this year’s Fund has been reimagined to help groups respond to the impact of COVID-19.

During the peak of the pandemic Coca-Cola provided relief funds to those most at risk from the immediate challenges of the crisis leaving €50,000 available through the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund this year.

In recognition of the vulnerable and marginalised young people that have been disproportionately socio-economically affected by the the pandemic, Coca-Cola Thank-You Fund grants totalling €50,000 will be awarded to charities, community and voluntary organisations and NGOs seeking support for initiatives targeted at supporting young people aged 16-25.

Successful groups who received grants lat year include Monkstown Boxing Club (Antrim); Mary Peter’s Trust (Antrim); St Malachy’s OB Football Club and Albert Foundry Academy FC (Antrim); and Horn of Africa People’s Aid Northern Ireland (Antrim). Radio presenter Pete Snodden has again got behind the Coca-Cola Thank-You Fund and is encouraging community leaders to take action and apply for funding at www.coca-cola.ie/thankyou.

He said: “I think that everyone is finding it difficult to navigate this ‘new world,’ but for someone whose only support is their local youth group, this is a particularly scary time.

“I would most definitely encourage youth workers and change leaders in local communities across Northern Ireland who need support to continue their work, or who have an idea that they believe will help young people struggling as a result of COVID-19 to apply to this year’s Coca-Cola Thank-You Fund!”

Petre Sandru, Country Manager, Coca-Cola Ireland, said: “If you’re running a local youth group that’s in need of funding, or if you’re a charity or NGO with an idea for a project that will support young people affected by the impact of COVID-19, I would encourage you to apply to this year’s Coca-Cola Thank You Fund.

“Whether you’re bridging a gap or building a bridge, it’s never been more important to support and inspire young people in your local area.”

Applications for funding can be made via www.coca-cola.ie/thankyou until midnight on Friday, September 25.

Leaders of the shortlisted projects will be invited present their ideas remotely to a panel of judges in October. Successful recipients will be awarded funding in early November.