Welcome financial boost for local groups from the National Lottery

This funding is part of a roll-out of almost £1.8 million to more than 60 projects across Northern Ireland. 

Lisburn Downtown Centre is using a £5,000 grant to continue its phone-based befriender service and mental health support parcels which are being delivered to members of its four core weekly groups - older people, people with a mild learning difficulty, people with mental health problems and carers. The project helps instil community cohesion by being a continued presence in the lives of those most isolated and alone and ensuring a continued sense of togetherness and support throughout the pandemic.

Yung-Gi Taekwondo (YGT) is using a £3,500 grant to provide food nutrient packs and a healthy weekly programme of fitness and exercise to people in Upper Ballinderry and Magahberry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The project helps reduce stress and anxiety while encouraging people to look after their health and fitness.

Aghalee Village Hall is using a £2,500 grant to provide stock for the local foodbank to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Aghalee, Aghagallon and Ballinderry. The project helps relieve any additional financial burden felt at this time and supports anyone struggling in the community.

Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland Director of The National Lottery Community Fund said: “The projects funded all demonstrate the strength of their members and communities and the importance of staying connected with each other in these unprecedented times. It’s inspiring to see all these groups, staff and volunteers rising to the challenges of COVID-19.”