Minister for Education and Kerry T.D, Norma Foley, has welcomed the eligibility for up to 38 centres in County Kerry to apply for funding for older persons Day Centre and Meals on Wheels Community Care services.
This scheme is being introduced by Fianna Fail Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly and Fianna Fail Minister for Older People Mary Butler.
It will be available to support around 400 Section 39 community organisations across the country by providing extra financial support of up to €25,000 per organisation. The funding is designed to support improvements to the physical premises for day centres and Meals on Wheels services.
Upgrade Kitchens and Facilities
It can be used to upgrade kitchens and other facilities and to purchase equipment.
Since its establishment, the Meals on Wheels service has been vital to many communities across the country, providing approximately 2.7 million meals last year.
Speaking on the availability of this funding, Minister Foley expressed her delight at receiving confirmation from party colleagues, Minister Donnelly and Minister Butler that so many community organisations are eligible to apply for this funding.
Minister Foley said that the funding can go towards improving many day centres which may need upgrades to their facilities and will help these centres cater for the needs of people who avail of their services.
Vital Services for So Many
“Older person day centres and Meals on Wheels services are such a vital service for so many, and many people rely on it. They offer a safe and welcoming environment where people can access these essential services as well as allowing people to engage in social activities,” she said.
“People want to be able to live at home for longer, and that doesn’t always mean care in their home. For people to have access to these day centres and essential services, it gives them a sense of purpose, social interaction, and a safe environment to meet friends.”
“Government has almost doubled funding for the national Meals on Wheels service from over €3 million in 2022 to over €6 million this year. I would encourage all eligible centres in Kerry to apply for this funding,” Minister Foley urged.
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