McHugh encourages Donegal youth clubs to apply for new funding

Fine Gael Donegal TD Joe McHugh has encouraged local youth clubs to apply for grants under a new €1.17 million fund announced by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone.

“This year’s Local Youth Club Grant Scheme will see €48,226 allocated to the Donegal Education and Training Board for local volunteer led youth groups,” said Minister McHugh today.

“Youth groups and clubs across Donegal will soon be able to apply to the Donegal ETB for funding under this scheme.

“Youth clubs are part of the fabric of communities here in Donegal and must be supported.

“Thanks to our recovering economy, the Government was able to increase this year’s funding for youth clubs by 10%. Fine Gael is determined to ensure that we target the benefits of our economic recovery at those who need it most.”

Minister McHugh, a former youth worker, added: “When we support youth groups, the whole community can benefit. The aim is to enhance the lives of our young people by developing their skills and talents and harnessing their energy in a positive way. This of course also benefits the wider communities in which these young people live.

“The scheme is open to approximately 1,600 youth groups and clubs, with an estimated 90,000 club members around the country. So I strongly encourage Donegal groups and clubs here to apply for this funding to ensure that our local communities can benefit.

“This year the Scheme is open to new clubs and applicants which have not benefitted in the past. So this could be a great opportunity for a new group to grow and expand. I encourage clubs and groups to apply, no matter how new or small they are.

“Each ETB will be advertising the scheme locally and on their website in the coming months. So I encourage all Donegal youth groups to keep an eye out and get their applications ready.”

ENDS