Derry based charity secures £20,000 grant

The Ireland Funds has announced a £20,000 grant to Kinship Care NI, a Derry-based, award-winning charity providing help and support to kinship carers and their children in Northern Ireland.

Part of its Heart of the Community Fund, the grant highlights the desire of The Ireland Funds to address urgent needs in the community, in particular supporting essential services to children experiencing poverty, marginalisation, and difficult circumstances. 

The grants are strategically allocated as a quick response at a time of year when the challenges faced by those experiencing hardship are amplified.

Caitriona Fottrell, President & CEO of The Ireland Funds said: "This grant round reflects The Ireland Funds’ commitment to helping those facing extraordinary challenges. Through philanthropy, we bridge resource gaps, partnering with exceptional organisations to address critical needs of people living in difficult situations. We are deeply appreciative of our donors whose generosity makes this response possible."

Kinship Care Northern Ireland supports children and young people raised by relatives or friends due to parental illness, addiction, or incapacity. It provides advocacy, emotional support, and practical assistance to carers, helping them navigate legal, financial, and social challenges. Kinship Care Northern Ireland works to ensure that children in these situations receive the care and stability they need while supporting the carers who provide it.

€25,000 will support various initiatives to assist children and young people in need including providing nutritious breakfasts for 91 children, supporting 60 children through a Homework Club with necessary materials and snacks, and engaging 85 children in afterschool play activities and educational trips. Additionally, the grant will fund a Small Grants Programme to assist 178 children with school-related expenses, such as uniforms and educational supplies.

The Ireland Funds Heart of the Community Fund highlights the power of strategic philanthropy in addressing urgent issues. By investing in these services, The Ireland Funds aims to nurture communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive.