Increased funding for Parent and Toddler Groups - Smyth
Local Fianna Fáil Minister Niamh Smyth has welcomed an increased allocation of €350,000 in grant funding for the growing number of Parent and Toddler Groups.
Fianna Fáil Minister for Children Norma Foley today announced that additional funding of €100,000 has been secured, on top of last year’s allocation of €250,000, to reflect the growth of Parent and Toddler groups in recent years.
Minister Smyth said, "This funding can be used for a variety of purposes including children’s toys, equipment and books as well as children’s refreshments and snacks. It can also be used for children’s activities such as arts and crafts and music. Parents can also be supported with parenting courses and courses in first aid for children.''
The funding will be allocated to Parent and Toddler Groups nationwide through local City/County Childcare Committees (CCCs).
From today, Wednesday, February 26, Parent and Toddler Groups are invited to make an application for funding under this Initiative through their local CCC.
Following from the success of the additional funding streams in previous year’s grants, the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative 2025 will again offer three streams of funding:
- €800 for existing groups
- €1,000 for the establishment of new groups.
- Additional funding of up to €300 is available to establish and operate Buggy Walking Groups.