Fund Launched to support Community-led Health and Wellbeing Projects in Clare

The purpose of the LCDC’s Healthy Clare Micro Fund is to encourage and support community and voluntary groups to take an active part in improving and protecting health and wellbeing at all stages of life, reducing health inequalities, and creating an environment where everyone can play their part in a healthier Clare.

The fund will support targeted actions in response to the identified two priority outcomes for a healthier Clare:

1. Healthy weight
2. Positive mental health promotion.

These priority outcomes align with the Healthy Clare Action Plan, the Healthy Ireland Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing, and the Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP). Community and voluntary groups promoting health and wellbeing in County Clare are encouraged to apply. Public sector organisations are not eligible to make applications. Groups are encouraged to register with the Clare Public Participation Network (PPN) and to be actively involved in the PPN.

The types of proposals considered for the Healthy Clare Micro Fund 2024 are the following:

1. Support fund for promoting a healthy weight under the following four pillars (max grant €2,000): healthy eating; physical activity; stress management; and sleep hygiene
2. Support fund for promoting positive mental health (max grant €2,000).

Cllr Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council, said: “I am grateful for the unwavering commitment of the community and voluntary sector in collaborating with and supporting communities. Their tireless efforts make a significant difference. I see the Healthy Clare Micro Fund 2024 as an opportunity for our communities to come together and champion the health and wellbeing of all individuals. By focusing on initiatives that address both mental health and healthy weight, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council, added: “Clare County Council acknowledges the significance of advancing health and wellbeing through its continued commitment to the work of Clare’s Local Community Development Committee and its initiatives in this area. I believe the Healthy Clare Micro Fund 2024 is an opportunity for groups working in the health and wellbeing space throughout Clare to apply for funding that can assist them in the delivery of their important actions. This is a resource that can enable communities to respond to the health and wellbeing needs of the people living in their areas. I would encourage groups to make use of this micro fund, supporting the vision of a healthier Clare for all.”

Cllr Gerry Flynn, Chairperson, LCDC, said: “I am pleased to see a portion of the Healthy Ireland funding for Clare being set aside to enhance the implementation of community-led health and wellbeing initiatives. Clare’s LCDC is fully committed to supporting the health and wellbeing needs of everyone in Clare. This commitment is reflected in the new LECP. The micro fund supports Clare County Council’s commitment towards fostering a culture of holistic wellbeing within the community, by empowering organisations, community groups and individuals to develop initiatives that address the diverse health needs of Clare’s population.”

Samantha McCarthy, Healthy Clare Co-ordinator, said: “The Healthy Clare Micro Fund is an important aspect of Healthy Ireland Round 4 funding for Clare. The micro fund places a special emphasis on two of the key themes within the Healthy Ireland programme, healthy weight and mental health. Healthy Clare recognises the interconnectedness between the pillars of healthy weight and positive mental health. I thank the Department of Health, Pobal, Clare County Council, Clare LCDC and members of the Healthy Clare Working Group for their support in the delivery of this programme to date.  I acknowledge the work of Clare’s community and voluntary sectors in promoting health and wellbeing and I look forward to seeing the actions come to life all over again in 2024”.

Applications for the Healthy Clare Micro Fund 2024 are open to groups and organisations based in County Clare. Projects eligible for funding may include, but are not limited to:

• Initiatives that promote healthy eating habits, nutrition, sleep and stress management education, and access to nutritious food options
• Community-led fitness programmes and sports initiatives aimed at promoting healthy weight management
• Mental health awareness campaigns, workshops, and supports for individuals of all ages.

To apply for the Healthy Clare Micro Fund 2024, please visit: https://clarecoco.submit.com/

Before completing the online application form, please read the grant guidelines carefully.

Closing Date for receipt of application forms is Friday, 14th June at 5:00 pm.

For more information on the Healthy Clare Micro Fund please contact the Healthy Clare Co-ordinator, Samantha McCarthy, at healthyclare@clarecoco.ie or 087 987 8785. The Healthy Clare Micro Fund is supported by the Clare LCDC, Healthy Ireland, the Department of Health, and Pobal.

Page last reviewed: 14/05/24

Content managed by: Rural and Community

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