Almost €7,000 has been granted for improved services at two disability organisations in Donegal.
The first allocations of the government’s €20 million Strengthening Disability Services Fund were announced today, with Donegal Horizons Ltd and iCARE listed as successful applicants.
Donegal Horizons Ltd, the Intellectual Difficulty Support service, was granted €5,608 for assistive technology services.
The iADULT Day Service at iCARE Inishowen was allocated €1,319 for assistive technology.
Announced as part of Budget 2021, the one-off grants are being provided to reform disability services, build the capacity of disability organisations and to improve the quality of life of those who rely on these services.
The Minister of State with responsibility for Disability Services at the Department of Health, Anne Rabbitte TD said: “In this first cycle of funding, projects approved include improvements to premises, such as additional recreational spaces, therapeutic spaces and sensory gardens, as well as the purchase of assistive technologies, tablet devices and other computers for service users, and the provision of broadband to disability premises. Grants have also been provided for building upgrades and refurbishments, updated fire safety measures and much needed upgrades to IT systems and staff training.
“The Strengthening Disability Services Fund is on top of the additional €100 million delivered in Budget 2021 and highlights this government’s commitment to enhance supports for people with disabilities. These grants will further bolster our voluntary disability service providers and help them meet the challenges they may face in delivering services. Further grants are being assessed at present and will be announced later in the month.”
