Capital funding boost for local family resource centres
Clara Family Resource Centre and Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre are each to receive €10,000 under a new Government capital fund, Fine Gael TD for Offaly John Clendennen has confirmed.
The funding forms part of the first-ever dedicated capital fund for Ireland’s Family Resource Centre network, announced by Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley.
Under the 2026 Family Resource Centre Capital Fund, Clara Family Resource Centre and Tullamore Community and Family Resource Centre will each receive a once-off allocation of €10,000, bringing the total investment in the two Offaly centres to €20,000.
Deputy Clendennen said: “Family Resource Centres are an incredibly important part of the communities they serve, providing practical supports and services to individuals and families at every stage of life.
“This €20,000 investment for Clara and Tullamore will allow both centres to make practical improvements based on the needs they see every day in their own communities.
“One of the strengths of this funding is the flexibility being given to individual centres to decide how it can best be used locally. Those working within our Family Resource Centres know their communities and the people using their services, and they are best placed to identify where this investment can make the greatest difference.
“Whether that means improvements to buildings, accessibility works, new equipment or investment in ICT and technology, this is funding that can deliver very tangible benefits locally.”
Nationally, Minister Foley has announced a €1.36 million once-off capital investment across all 136 Family Resource Centres. The funding can support measures including minor building and refurbishment works, accessibility improvements, health and safety and security measures, furniture, equipment, ICT and telecommunications infrastructure, digital systems and energy-efficiency improvements.
Deputy Clendennen added: “Family Resource Centres play an important role in providing family support, counselling, education and training, advocacy, youth and community groups and practical assistance.
“This new capital allocation also comes alongside increased ongoing Government support for the Family Resource Centre Programme. Budget 2026 increased the minimum annual core funding level from €160,000 to €180,000, while ten additional centres were established nationally this year.
“I know the value of the work being carried out by the teams in Clara and Tullamore and I look forward to seeing this funding put to good use in both communities.