Community Activities
Bairds of Antrim has awarded funding to four community organisations through its Community Assistance Programme, helping to support projects that promote wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community connections across the Antrim area.
Each organisation has been awarded £500 to help deliver initiatives that will make a positive difference to local people, from bereavement support and community wellbeing projects to support for families, volunteers and older residents.
Creating Spaces, Support and Connections
One of the successful applicants, Antrim Methodist Church will use its grant towards the development of a new prayer garden within the church grounds. The garden will provide a peaceful and accessible outdoor space for reflection, prayer and community connection, offering a welcoming environment for local residents, community groups and church members alike.
Meanwhile, Fresh Minds Education has secured funding for Threads of Comfort, a creative bereavement project that will bring together people who have experienced loss. Through facilitated craft sessions, participants will have the opportunity to remember loved ones, connect with others who understand grief and access local support in a safe and compassionate environment.
Supporting Families and Volunteers
Funding has also been awarded to Home Start – Antrim District, which supports families with young children across the area. The grant will help provide end-of-year appreciation gifts for the charity’s volunteers, recognising the invaluable contribution they make to families through home support, family groups and the Antrim Baby Bank
In addition, Rathenraw Youth Scheme will use its award to support its Senior Citizens Christmas Hampers project. The initiative will bring young people and older residents together to prepare and distribute around 100 hampers to older people who may be experiencing loneliness, isolation or financial hardship during the festive season.
Investing in Local Communities
The Community Assistance Programme was established by Bairds of Antrim to support organisations and projects that are responding to local needs and making a meaningful contribution within the communities they serve. The programme aims to provide practical support to grassroots groups while helping to build stronger, more connected communities.
By supporting projects focused on wellbeing, community engagement, family support and reducing isolation, this year’s recipients demonstrate the wide range of important work taking place across Antrim and the lasting impact that local organisations have on people’s lives.
Everyone at Bairds of Antrim congratulates the successful applicants and looks forward to seeing the positive difference these projects make within the local community over the coming months