Grant boost for local groups

The Lottery Fund has handed over £60,000 to a number of Banbridge based groups.

As part of the Big Lottery Fund’s for All programme Banbridge Friendship Group received £4,684 which will go towards funding trips to Mount Stewart, the Antrim coast, Carrickfergus Castle and the Ulster American Folk Park and activities including a Christmas party and a Burns Night celebration for the members of the group.

Via Wings that provides an outreach centre with a range of programmes to support people in the Dromore area received a £10,000 grant.

Kindred Spirits which was handed over £7,900 provides a range of social opportunities and activities for the over 50s in the wider Gilford district between Banbridge and Portadown.

Rathfriland Masonic Lodge No 155 that provides support and activities for men in Rathfriland, received a grant of £9,448 to run a number of workshops and classes for the members and to buy equipment.

The £9,792 grant that was given to the Sir Henry Wilson Orange Hall Committee that provides facilities and organises activities for the local community in the Banbridge area, including historical lectures, training, music, and social events.

Donaghcloney Rural Needs Development Group got £9,633 which will go towards summer trips and new outdoor play equipment.

It is part of a Big Lottery Fund grants roll out of £743,207 to 95 groups across Northern Ireland.

Friends of Saint Paul’s Association established to help enhance the educational experiences of the children at the St Paul’s PS in Cabra, received a £10,000 grant.

Joanne McDowell, Big Lottery Fund NI Director, said: “The Big Lottery Fund’s NI Awards for All programme funds help people bring about positive change in their lives, improve health and well-being, develop skills and create safer communities.”

Application forms are available to download at www.biglotteryfund.org.uk or ring 028 9055 1455.

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