Laois NS receives funding boost from Ireland Fund

BALLYFIN National School has received a slice of €1 million fund through the international global philanthropic network Ireland Fund.

The principal of the school confirmed that the grant would be used to upgrade and enhance the existing school grounds, with a particular emphasis on creating safe, welcoming spaces where the children of the newly opened ASD class can integrate with mainstream pupils.

The funding is part of the Heart of the Community Fund grant round, which is dedicated to organisations operating either in the spheres of education or innovation.

In terms of education, its priorities focus on organisations providing access to learning, both formal and informal, across all age levels; innovation is where its priorities are used to support organisations taking creative approaches to address problems, either by devising something new or enhancing existing solutions.

Describing the fund, Caitriona Fottrell, president and CEO of the Ireland Fund, said: “Across Ireland, organisations are responding to local challenges with ambition, creativity and deep community knowledge and this funding helps give them the resources to go further. From expanding access to education, to supporting innovative ideas, these grants are helping to drive meaningful progress across the island. None of this happens without the generosity of our donors who continue to support real progress across the island.” The Ireland Fund is a global philanthropic network established in 1976 to promote and support peace, culture, education and community development throughout the island of Ireland and Irish-related causes around the world. 

Recently funded projects include Barnados, Alone, Focus Ireland, Peaceplayers Northern Ireland, Irish Dogs, various recycling initiatives and many more.