Kildare TD Encourages People To Avail Of Grants For Parent and Toddler Groups

Friday, 13 May 2022 11:47

By Caoimhe Harney

Funding is now available for groups nationwide.

Some €325,000 in funding has been announced for Parent and Toddler Groups nationwide through local City/County Childcare Committees (CCCs).

A grant of up to €400 is now open to any existing or new organisations or groups who wish to offer a minimum of six organised walks within their community.

Funding of up to €400 is available for new or existing Parent and Toddler Groups to provide an additional session.

In addition to these new funding streams, Parent and Toddler Groups can apply for funding towards:

· Toys, equipment and books for indoor and outdoor activities, children’s refreshments.

· Storage for equipment

· Training for parents, e.g. paediatric first aid, committee skills, parenting courses, facilitated sessions.

· Children’s activities, e.g. arts and crafts, music.

· Limited funding will be available towards insurance, rent or minor refurbishment.

Parent and Toddler Groups are invited to make an application for funding under this initiative through their local CCC.

This year, two new funding streams are being introduced under Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative:

Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare North, James Lawless commented: “I hope this initiative will encourage the development of new Parent and Toddler Groups, as well as support the continuation and expansion of existing Groups.

"Parent and Toddler Groups provide a great meeting place for parents/guardians with young children to relax and chat together in a supportive environment while their children play.”

"This Initiative will be administered by local CCCs on behalf of the Department of Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth. Further information on the application process, including detailed application guidelines are available now on local CCC websites.

"Parent and Toddler Groups are encouraged to contact their local CCC with any queries on the Initiative and the application process," he added.

The contact details and links to websites of all local CCCs can be found here.