Funding boost of over €14,000 for 13 Offaly parent and toddler groups
Tullamore based Deputy Tony McCormack says funding will provide essential support
OVER €14,000 in funding has been allocated for Parent and Toddler Groups across County Offaly as part of a national package announced by Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley T.D.
A total of 13 groups in Offaly will benefit from the funding, which forms part of the Government’s wider strategy to support families and early years services. The groups receiving grants include Babóg Birr, Banagher, Busy Bees, Clareen, Edenderry Inclusive, Kinnitty, Little Twinkles, Lots to Do, Moneygall, Mucklagh, Offaly Traveller Movement, Parents First, and Shinrone - Tots and Teas.
Deputy Tony McCormack said the funding will provide essential support for community-based services that play a key role in the lives of families with young children.
“These groups are the backbone of early years community support,” he said. “They offer parents and carers a chance to connect, and provide children with safe, fun and developmental experiences. I’m particularly pleased to see funding go toward activities like arts and crafts, music, buggy walking groups, and practical supports such as insurance, rent, first aid training and equipment.”
The funding is part of the First 5 strategy – the Government’s national framework for supporting babies, young children, and their families. A record €421,618 has been allocated nationwide to 461 Parent and Toddler Groups, with Offaly receiving a fair and equal share of the resources. All groups in the county were treated equally, with no prioritisation, according to Offaly County Childcare Committee.
Deputy McCormack thanked the local volunteers and organisations who run these groups, and commended Offaly CCC for its work in administering the programme.
“I’ll continue working to ensure our local families, especially in rural communities, have access to strong, well-resourced early years services,” he added.