Tyrone groups benefit from lottery funding

NUMEROUS organisations across Tyrone have been awarded grants by the National Lottery Community fund as part of a recent announcement of almost £5 million of funding for 110 organisations throughout the North.

The funding comes with the intention of supporting people in making social connections, learning new skills and accessing services to improve their lives.

Among those receiving funding in the area are Gallows Hill Community Association in Omagh, Omagh Pride and Dungannon Youth Resource Centre.

Gallows Hill Community Association in Omagh have received £8,210 to buy equipment for their new community venue and run a programme of creative and well-being workshops. The project includes reflexology, meditation, drumming lessons and craft sessions, to bring together and support the local community.

Gallows Hill Community Association secretary, Michaela McManus, said, “We are thrilled to receive this funding from The National Lottery Community Fund. It will enable us to continue the work we’ve started to reduce social isolation and bring the community together after a tough few years.

“We will be able to continue our weekly coffee mornings, which have proven to be a great success.

“We also have plans for a number of other events and courses throughout the year, alongside a much needed facelift for our community house. So watch this space!”

Omagh Pride committee member, Daniel Waldron, said they were ‘delighted’ to have received £10,000 in financial support from the National Lottery Community Fund.

CELEBRATION

Speaking with the Tyrone Herald, Daniel said, “This funding will help us put on the biggest and most colourful celebration of LGBTQ+ identity and culture possible, promoting visibility and acceptance in the rural North West.

“Last year, the town’s streets were packed with marchers and supports, and we’re aiming to build on that again.”

Another organisation benefiting from funding is Dungannon Youth Resource Centre who have been awarded a £19,000 grant to run physical activities alongside well-being workshops for local young people. The project intends to promote healthier lifestyles and improve mental health and well-being.

Youth Support Worker at Dungannon Youth Resource Centre, Alex Cruickshank, said the funding was a ‘massive boost’.

“We provide a safe space in our community to over 80 young people, six evenings a week, which not only helps them with their health and well-being through a range of active programs, but also helps them reach their full potential as young people.

“This funding will be a massive boost for the centre and will allow us to provide more activities to improve young people’s wellbeing.”