Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre has been selected as one of 49 organisations nationwide to receive funding under the 2026 United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty initiative.
The initiative, administered by the Department of Social Protection, provides support to community and voluntary organisations to hold events and activities promoting awareness of poverty, social exclusion and the experiences of people directly affected by them.
The annual UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty takes place on 17 October.
Offaly Fine Gael TD Deputy John Clendennen said the inclusion of Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre reflected the important role the centre continues to play in supporting individuals and families throughout the local community.
“This is another very positive recognition of the work being carried out by Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre and, importantly, it will help the centre give a voice to people who have direct experience of poverty and social exclusion,” Deputy Clendennen told the Irish Independent in a statement.
“Family Resource Centres are often among the first places people turn when they are experiencing difficulties. They provide accessible, community-based support without stigma and build relationships with families over many years,” he said.
“The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is particularly valuable because it ensures that discussions around poverty are not simply about statistics or policy, but include the voices and lived experiences of the people who are directly affected.”
The latest allocation comes on foot of an announcement earlier this week when the centre was confirmed for a €10,000 allocation under the first dedicated Family Resource Centre Capital Fund, which will support investment in its facilities and infrastructure.
Deputy Clendennen said these investments demonstrate the range of work being undertaken locally.
“The funding secured by the centre in recent times is supporting everything from its physical facilities to early-intervention therapy, family supports and now initiatives aimed at highlighting poverty and social exclusion.
“That is a reflection of just how broad the role of a modern Family Resource Centre has become.
“I want to acknowledge the staff, volunteers and board of Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre for their continued work and particularly for continuing to identify and apply for funding opportunities which can strengthen the services available to families in Tullamore and the surrounding area,” the Deputy finished.
The Department of Social Protection has approved 49 organisations nationally under this year’s initiative.
The expanded funding is being provided in the context of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and will support workshops, discussions, cultural activities, awareness campaigns and community gatherings.