Cash boost for disadvantaged areas

THE Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) is now open to community groups across Wicklow to enhance facilities in disadvantaged areas.

The CEP is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development (the Department) and administered by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) in each Local Authority area.

The Department provides funding to Wicklow County Council and the LCDC then administer this funding locally to ensure it is targeted appropriately towards addressing disadvantage in the areas that need it most.

The CEP will operate in a complementary manner to add value to other front-line schemes and programmes being operated in communities.

The Department has recommended that the LCDCs ring-fence some funding to provide small capital grants of €1,000 or less.

This is aimed at assisting small grassroots community projects to get off the ground.

Ring-fencing funding at this level will allow a larger volume of those with limited resources to receive some funding.

The programme can also fund or partially fund larger scale capital projects to address disadvantage.

Applications can be made to Wicklow LCDC by 5 p.m. on Friday, September 18.

Capital expenditure on adaptations or equipment needed as a result of COVID-19 may also be eligible, depending on the work being completed.

Application forms are available if you visit Wicklow County Council’s website at www.wicklow.ie.