Nora Smith, Chief Executive, CO3
Reacting to the news that the Covid-19 Charities Fund will be launched on Monday 15 June, CO3 Chief Executive Nora Smith said:
“This is welcome news after 12 weeks of extreme uncertainty and hardship for Northern Ireland’s charity and voluntary sector. While the £15.5m fund won’t reach every organisation which has been affected by the coronavirus, it will provide grant awards to help some of the worst hit who have seen their funding income drop. The eligibility criteria will also hopefully allow as many charities as possible to apply for funding up to £75,000.
“The speedy release of funds is now paramount and must be prioritised to ensure jobs and key services are saved. Charities should be aware that it could take up to four weeks upon receipt of application for funds to be paid and funding is also dependent on demand, therefore it is important to apply for this support as soon as possible.”