Credit union want Laois communities to step forward for €100k fund

Communities around Durrow, Rathdowney and Mountrath are being invited to apply for support from a new €100,000 fund from St Canice’s Credit Union.

The credit union, which has branches in its three towns, says it is thrilled to announce the launch of its Community Connect Fund as part of its 60th-anniversary celebrations.

It says the fund, which was launched locally in Durrow, will support capital projects that will have a lasting and positive effect on our community and is now accepting applications.

The Kilkenny headquartered credit union is seeking projects that demonstrate sustainability, address a recognised community need and align with its ethos and values.

Carmel Butler, CEO of St Canice’s Credit Union is looking forward to hearing from groups and societies across the region. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: Tom McWey and Jackie Kealy from St. Canice’s Credit Union with members Martin Lawlor, Cllr Ollie Clooney, Breda Kearney, Mary Monahan and Ethel Dunphy at the St. Canice’s Credit Union Community Connect Fund launch at their branch in Durrow. Picture: Alf Harvey.

“The last time we opened our Community Connect Fund, we were so impressed with the applications we received. The range of initiatives and standard of the work being carried out in communities across our common bond is phenomenal,” she said.

With an allocation of €100,000 in 2024, the Community Connect Fund aims to make a meaningful impact within the common bond area. This area encompasses branches in High St, Kilkenny, Bagenalstown, Callan, Piltown, Graiguenamanagh, Ballyragget, Durrow, Mountrath, and Rathdowney.

St Canice’s is one of the largest community Credit Unions in Ireland with an asset size of over €475 million and products ranging from term deposit accounts to current accounts and mortgages.

As St. Canice’s has grown and its membership expanded, it says a significant effort has been made to ensure the credit union remains focused on its commitment to be a community-focused not-for-profit organisation.

“The Community Connect Fund is just one of the ways we give back to our members and it is only possible through the support of those members who continue to use the Credit Union as their financial provider of choice in record numbers,” said Ms Butler. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: Tom McWey and Jackie Kealy from St. Canice’s Credit Union with Izzie Dunne after opening her account at the St. Canice’s Credit Union Community Connect Fund launch at their branch in Durrow. Picture: Alf Harvey

In previous years, the fund has supported a wide range of initiatives spanning sports, social inclusion, healthcare, and everything in between. It is anticipated that once again in 2024, there will be a diverse range of groups awarded funding. Community groups of all sizes and backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

If any applicants have further questions or require assistance, they can reach out to St Canice’s Credit Union at 056 7722042 and ask for the Marketing Department.

St Cancie's says organisations interested in applying for support from the Community Connect Fund can access the application form on the St Canice’s Credit Union website. www.stcanicescu.ie  The closing date is May 31, 2024.

"The very best of luck to all who take the time to apply," concludes the statement.