Donegal Parent and Toddler Groups receive €26,730 funding

The Government has announced funding of €26,730 for Parent and Toddler groups within Donegal. Minister for Children, Norma Foley TD, revealed that over 461 Parent and Toddler groups would receive a combined total of €421,618, including 26 groups in Donegal.

Only Limerick and Cork County will have more Parent and Toddler groups, which will receive more funding than Donegal. In Limerick, 31 groups will be allocated €30,700, and in Cork County, 41 groups will be granted €35,991. 

Parent and Toddler groups in Laois will receive the least funding, with only 4 groups allocated a combined total of €3,700. 

The funding is intended to be used for a variety of purposes, including children’s toys, equipment, and books, as well as children’s refreshments and snacks. It can also be used for children’s activities such as arts and crafts and music. Parents can also be supported with parenting courses and courses in first aid for children.

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Minister Foley said: “I am delighted to be supporting the wonderful work of the Parent and Toddler groups who provide a valuable opportunity for parents and carers with younger children to meet up in the community.

“It is very encouraging to see that more and more parents and their toddlers are taking part every year. I am pleased that these grants are supporting the growth of buggy walking groups, which were introduced post-Covid to encourage more outdoor activity. 

“These groups are an important source of social contact, especially for new parents and parents who are new to an area.

“I want to especially thank the groups who are offering a welcome and friendship to parents and children who are newly arrived in Ireland and into the community.”