Business

'Live Here Love Here' community scheme offering £200,000 in grants

Live Here Love Here manager Jodie McAneaney
Live Here Love Here manager Jodie McAneaney Live Here Love Here manager Jodie McAneaney

APPLICATIONS have opened for a small grants scheme where communities across Northern Ireland can benefit from up to £5,000 of funding to improve their local area.

The scheme, now in its sixth year, is spearheaded by environmental charity Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful’s 'Live Here Love Here' campaign and is supported by 10 local councils as well as the NI Housing Executive, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola.

More than £200,000 of funding is available overall, with grants from £500 to £5,000 open to volunteer and community groups, all school and third level education organisations, youth groups and sports clubs undertaking community-based environmental projects.

Successful applicants will aim to improve the health and wellbeing of communities whilst helping to improve or maintain public spaces and promote civic pride across Northern Ireland.

Live Here Love Here manager Jodie McAneaney said: “Last year we supported 164 local community projects, and applications for 2019 will remain open until May 28 and can be made via www.liveherelovehere.org

“This is an incredible opportunity for local communities to get the valuable support they need to further improve their environment and promote a cleaner, greener, safer place to live.

“We’re delighted our sponsors have continued to donate the vital funds for the sixth year running and we will ensure the money is put to the very best of use across Northern Ireland."

She added: “There are lots of inspiring projects going on with selfless volunteers who are dedicating their free time and hard work to keep Northern Ireland beautiful.

“From the reduction of litter and dog fouling, to the promotion of local tourism and community spirit and the creation of safe space for families to play and enjoy projects such as gardening. We want to hear from as many groups as possible who actively Live Here Love Here."