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MEP publishes guide to funding for churches

Tuesday February 5th 2013

A new publication on funding has been produced by Diane Dodds, MEP, entitled ‘Signposts to Funding for Churches and Faith–Based Organisations.’ 

It contains more than 30 sources of funding, the majority of which are Christian Trusts and Foundations. These funds offer assistance with projects for buildings, refurbishments, equipment, core costs, youth work and Christian education, whilst prioritising the most vulnerable groups in our society. 

This directory also recognises the international dimension of the work carried out by churches and faith–based organisations that advances the Christian faith through mission, health and welfare, education, training and relief. Over 20 Trust and Foundations are included which support such initiatives. 

For example, The Barleycorn Trust supports projects and activities that advance the Christian faith through mission, welfare and relief throughout the world. Grants range from £500 – £70,000. The Christian Response to Eastern Europe offers grants of between £1,000–£20,000 to support families, churches and medical organisations that work in Romania and Moldova.

The European Union’s Grundtvig Programme offers funding for between two and six people over the age of 50 from Northern Ireland to travel to another EU country to share their skills, knowledge and experience for a period of three – eight weeks. The grant covers hotel accommodation, food and travel.

Many churches and faith–based organisations need support for maintenance costs. The Owen Family Trust offers grants of between £100 and £1500 for this purpose. In addition, The Laing Family Foundations may assist with larger building projects.

Diane said: “It is my ultimate hope that this funding directory offers direction and encouragement to churches and faith based organisations in Northern Ireland in their endeavours to extend God’s Kingdom both at home and throughout the world.”

A number of funding workshops are taking place throughout Northern Ireland during which the directory will be available free of charge. Further advice will be given at the workshops on trusts and foundations. Guidance about how to apply for funding will also be provided.

Representatives from over 50 Lisburn churches and faith based organisations attended one of Diane’s funding seminars which took place at House of Vic–Ryn, Lisburn, on Saturday February 2.

Church of Ireland representatives from St Paul’s, Derriaghy, Magheralin, Magheragall, St Hilda’s, Seymour Hill, St Matthew’s, Broomhedge, St John’s, Stoneyford, Holy Trinity, Aghalee, Lisburn Cathedral, St John’s, Kilwarlin and St John’s, Moira were in attendance.

For further information on the publication and the seminars plase contact the office of Diane Dodds MEP on Lisburn 028 9266 7733.

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