This scheme will be available to support around 400 Section 39 community organisations across the country by providing extra financial support of up to €25,000 per organisation.
The funding is designed to support improvements to the physical premises for Day Centres and Meals on Wheels services.
It can be used to upgrade kitchens and other facilities, and to purchase equipment.
Since its establishment, the Meals on Wheels service has been vital to many communities across the country, providing approximately 2.7 million meals last year.
Speaking on the availability of this funding, Minister Rabbitte said:
I am delighted that up to 30 centres in Galway are eligible to apply for this funding.This funding can go towards improving many Day Centres who may need upgrades to their facilities and will help these centres cater for the needs of people who avail of their services.
and she continued:
Older person Day Centres and Meals on Wheels services are such a vital service for so many, and many people rely on it. They offer a safe and welcoming environment where people can access these essential services as well as allowing people to engage in social activities.
and she continued:
People want to be able to live at home for longer, and that doesn’t always mean care in their home.For people to have access to these Day Centres and essential services, it gives them a sense of purpose, social interaction, and a safe environment to meet friends.
Fianna Fáil in government have almost doubled funding for the national Meals on Wheels service from over €3 million in 2022 to over €6 million this year.
I would encourage all eligible centres in Galway to apply for this funding.
- Funding will be administered through the HSE Regional Health Areas (RHAs) and will be open to all HSE funded day care and Meals on Wheels services that currently have a Service Level Agreement (SLA) or are currently engaging with the HSE to provide such services.
- Further details on this grant funding and application process will be communicated directly to services in the coming weeks. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing community-based services and supporting the well-being of individuals across the country.
