Funding will make a Lott of difference to Dunclug

The small grants programme is awarding over 45,000 to the local groups as part of a grants roll-out of 628,025 to 76 groups across Northern Ireland (see separate attachment for full list of awards).

Awards for All offers community, voluntary and statutory groups the chance to apply for small grants of between 500 and 10,000 that will have a big impact on local communities and the lives of people most in need.

Dunclug and District Residents’ Association has been awarded 8,072 to buy computers, software and other equipment for its newly refurbished community centre in the Dunclug estate in Ballymena.

“Dunclug is classified as ‘an area at risk’ so as such we are delighted to receive this funding,” said local dad Kevin McCrudden, who’s lived in the area for over 30 years.

“The decline in Dunclug in the last decade has been marked and there just doesn’t seem to have been any support or funding – which is why this will make all the difference. We have a five-year action plan and this funding will be used towards achieving some of our goals, including improved access to educational opportunities and Internet access.

benefit

“Getting this funding is brilliant. It will benefit over 1,000 people because it will be the only facility of its kind in the area. I got involved with the community association because I have family and I’ve had to watch them grow up with so few amenities. There’s been nothing for young ones to do but hang around the street corners – and this area has its share of alcohol and drug-related problems. This funding will give us the opportunity to offer local people a service, help bring them together and restore a sense of community.”

Sir George White Memorial Flute Band, Broughshane was granted 6,800 and will use the grant to run a community BBQ and remembrance festival bringing the local community together.

Broughshane Primary School was granted 10,000 and will use the grant to run the distance no boundary programme for its pupils.

Portglenone Community Playgroup has been granted 725, the playgroup will use the grant to buy new play equipment for its pre-school pupils so they can be active, mix together, improve their movement, and have fun.

Ballymarlow and District Community Association which works to improve the health and education of local people, were granted 10,000 and will use the grant to run a project that encourages people to take part in cultural activity and healthy alternatives.

Dunclug & District Residents Association were granted 8,072 which works to improve the lives of local people, will use the grant to buy resources and equipment for their premises.