East Antrim groups told ‘it could be you’

The fund is understood to have received a low number of applications from the area and is keen to hear ideas which could make a difference to people.

Colin Howells, funding officer for The National Lottery Community Fund covering the Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne, areas said: “Smaller groups may be working away and not think they are eligible for funding or that it’s just for big charities, and we want to raise awareness that they can apply. National Lottery grants can be as little as £300, which to the right project can make a big difference.

“Whether groups are just want to make early contact about a potential idea or actually submit an application, applying to our funding programmes is online and very straightforward. There is support available all the way.”

Colin went on to give examples of projects currently funded in the area: “Carrickfergus Hub Improving Lives Locally (CHILL), who are using a £10,000 grant to run mental health programmes and help provide coping mechanisms for those struggling in the local community at the minute. This is the first time they applied for National Lottery money.

“Larne YMCA is using £9,982 to support learning and development opportunities for young people aged 11-18 from the Craigyhill, Antiville and Ballylorana areas who have missed education due to Covid-19. This group identified a real need due to the pandemic and we were able to support them quickly to help these local young people.

“Newtownabbey Women’s Group is using a £9,800 grant to host an outdoor Christmas event to recognise and thank local volunteers who went that extra mile at a time of crisis. It is a way of safely keep links throughout the community.”

For more information contact:

The National Lottery Community Fund on 028 4378 0003.

Colin Howells, funding officer covering Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus area, [email protected]

Jerome Grace, funding officer covering Antrim and Newtownabbey area, [email protected]

Click here to read: Larne YMCA members quiz first citizen on topics ranging from mental health to paramiltaries

--

Thank you for reading this article. We’re more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by coronavirus impacts our advertisers. Please consider purchasing a copy of the paper. You can also support trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription of the News Letter.