ALMOST €1.4 million has been allocated to Limerick communities who have welcomed Ukrainian refugees for local projects under the first ever Community Recognition Fund (CRF).
90 projects put forward by Limerick City and County Council, based on direct engagement with local communities, were successful. The proposals had to be consistent with local economic and community plans.
The funding of €1,389,505 will contribute to upgrade and improvement works for sports and community facilities, energy efficiency upgrades, purchasing of equipment for festivals, clubs and community projects and the construction of a childcare facility among other projects.
It’s part of the €50 million allocated to 880 projects across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located in their areas.
There are currently around 2,600 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTP) in Limerick who are being accommodated in a variety of settings. These include privately sourced accommodation, multi-occupation centres, tourist accommodation, student accommodation, pledged rooms with host families and pledged houses through the ‘Offer a Home Programme.’
Mayor Francis Foley said the funding will make a huge difference for communities across the city and county.
“It is a recognition of the warm welcome the citizens of Limerick have given our friends from Ukraine and other countries. The projects funded will support those communities that have answered the call in hosting these families and citizens, integrating them into their communities and helping them at a difficult time in their lives.”
Rural, Culture and Community Development Director Stephane Duclot said communities in Limerick were energised by the funding announcement right from the start with a high level of engagement received by Limerick City and County Council.
“This investment supports community participation, helping build better communities across a broad range of needs including the refurbishment of local sports clubs and facilities, the purchase of equipment to benefit local clubs and festivals and the enhancement of school facilities that are open to the wider community,” she explained.
The biggest single allocation of €164,500 went to St Kieran’s GAA Club in Ardagh for land purchase, site preparation and landscaping. €149,485 was allocated to Bruff/Grange/Meanus Community Council for a childcare facility. €98,005 went to St Munchin’s Community Centre in Limerick City for kitchen equipment while allocations of €60,000 went to the Ballybrown Clarina Community Council and the Foynes and District Community Council.
