Local groups encouraged to apply for lotto fund

Local groups are being encouraged to apply for funding under the National Lottery’s Good Causes fund.

The deadline for applications this year has been extended to Friday, April 1, with last year’s total of €289 million divided out.

The National Lottery says the Good Causes Fund provides vital resourcing for on average 4,000 groups, projects, organisations and clubs throughout the country every year. The money contributes to the extraordinary impact that these beneficiaries have on their local communities.

Speaking at the announcement, Sonya Lennon said she was delighted to be named as the Chair of the judging panel for this year’s awards. The Entrepreneur and Fashion Designer spoke of the importance of the event in recognising the incredible work being carried out all over the country by organisations who have a far-reaching effect on their communities.

“The last two years have not been easy on people but throughout the hardships of the pandemic and lockdowns, the shining light that really came through was the importance of community for each and every one of us. We saw individuals, groups and organisations come together to make a difference and help those around them who really needed it.”

Applications for the Awards are now open and beneficiaries can enter and check eligibility at www.lottery.ie/good-causes-awards.

The Awards will have seven categories which are:

• Sport

• Health and Wellbeing

• Arts/Culture

• Heritage

• Community

• Youth Affairs

• Irish language