Green TD - Steven Matthews, has welcomed the new fund for community groups that assist Ukrainian Refugees settling in Ireland. Grants of up to €100,000 will be available for groups assisting refugees. The Ireland for Ukraine Fund is a united fundraising response of media outlets based in Ireland and has received €5 million in Government funding. Speaking following the announcement from the Community Foundation for Ireland, Deputy Matthews said:
“I am delighted that the Ireland for Ukraine Fund has opened for applications. This is an important measure which will support vital efforts to assist individuals and families arriving from Ukraine. Over 1,370 Ukrainians have come to Wicklow since the outbreak of war in February. Our community and volunteering organisations across the county have worked extremely hard to provide basic services such as food, clothing and accommodation and to assist people to access education and work. They have also played a vital role in helping to integrate Ukrainian families into our communities and to make them feel welcome.
“I would encourage all groups in Wicklow that are helping refugees from the war in Ukraine to apply for this funding from the Community Foundation for Ireland. Grants from €5,000 to €100,000 are available and the closing date for applications is 30 June 2022. I will continue to work with my Green Party colleague and the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman TD, to ensure that the appropriate supports are provided for refugees arriving in Ireland.
“The senseless and immoral war in Ukraine has turned into one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Witnessing the work of NGOs and groups on the ground in Wicklow has made me appreciate the significance of their role of helping refugees to settle into Irish communities. I would like to thank all the volunteers across Wicklow who have gone above and beyond in their response to the crisis in Ukraine. If I can offer any group support in their efforts, I would be more than happy to. I would encourage anyone involved to email me and I will help in any way I can.” Deputy Matthews concluded.
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