Youth projects in Athlone have received a boost of €100,000 in funding, following the expansion of the Young People’s Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF ).
Athlone’s Gateway Project has been awarded €85,045 in funding, while the Woodlands Grove Youth Space is to receive €19,425 towards improving its services.
Minister of State at the Department of Health & Children, Barry Andrews, this week announced total funding of €0.7 million under the expansion of the YPFSF to the four new towns of Athlone, Arklow, Dundalk, and Wexford.
Eight capital projects in the four towns, including the two in Athlone, are to receive allocations, while €50,000 is also being made available to each of the four towns for once-off initiatives.
In addition, €40,000 has been allocated to the Football in the Community Programme to co-fund soccer programmes that will operate in partnership with the FAI in the four towns.
The Football in the Community Programme has been a great success in establishing and maintaining popular late night leagues, evening and weekend activities, and a link to education programmes through FETAC recognised courses.
Speaking at the announcement of the funding, Minister Andrews said he was confident that the facilities and equipment provided as a result of the funding will be enjoyed by many and will play an ongoing role in diverting young people away from drug and alcohol misuse.
“Today’s approvals illustrate again the Government’s continuing commitment to a preventative strategy in dealing with drug problems and to encouraging young people into sport, and other healthy recreational youth activities, and away from the risk of becoming involved in with drugs,” the Minister said.
“This significant funding will build on the tremendous work which is already being undertaken through the YPFSF. Each project, small or large, will have an impact on the lives of the young people being targeted.
“The Government is committed to investing in youth facilities and services in areas affected by drugs, and in doing so we are also investing in the future of our young people,” he added.
Over €169m has been allocated under the YPFSF to date in respect of facilities and services for young people.
