Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has encouraged charities to apply for new funding announced by the Communities Minister.

Carál Ní Chuilín unveiled the second round of funding from the £11.7 million COVID-19 Charities Fund, which opens on January 6. Pre-application information including eligibility, guidance and the application form will be available from December 14 on the Community Finance Ireland website.

“I welcome this move from the Minister and I encourage charities to apply as soon as possible, said Ms Armstrong, Deputy Chair of the Assembly’s Communities Committee.

“Charities who have lost income due to the pandemic can apply for funding of up to £75,000, with applicants to the previous round of funding able to apply. The funding criteria has been amended following consultation with the Committee, and with the community and voluntary sector. This means charities excluded from applying earlier in the year now can. If any organisations have any issues in doing so, please contact me and I would be delighted to help.

“Many charities provide a valuable service to the community, playing an important role in getting us all through these difficult times. This is an opportunity to be able to give back to them.”