ABC Council has marked a major funding milestone after awarding more than 6,000 grants and investing £13.6m in community and voluntary organisations across the borough since 2015.
The council celebrated the decade of support on October 2, 2026, at South Lake Leisure Centre, where representatives from local organisations gathered to showcase the impact of programmes and activities supported through the Financial Assistance Programme.
Funding supporting local groups
The programme has backed community and voluntary organisations delivering a broad range of programmes, services and events over the past decade. According to the council, the grants have helped organisations foster connection and belonging across the borough.
The milestone event brought together representatives including Joe Garvey of Richmount Rural Community Association, Donna Stewart of You Can Help, Geraldine Lawless of Portadown 2000 & Sustain, Gail Redmond of Via Wings and Charlene Stoops, Interim Chief Executive of ABC Council.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Councillor Mary O’Dowd also attended the event and praised the contribution made by community and voluntary groups.
“It’s fantastic to see so many community and voluntary organisations join us in celebrating this funding milestone! We are proud to support these groups through our grant programmes, which deliver significant social impact by improving lives and creating opportunities for people to connect across our borough.”
Councillor O’Dowd said the strength of local communities was central to creating an inclusive borough.
“Strong and active communities are the cornerstone of an inclusive and vibrant borough – when communities thrive, our borough thrives.”
Groups highlight wider value of grants
The council said community and voluntary groups had highlighted the value of the financial support in feedback to its team. One organisation said the benefit of the funding extended beyond the money itself, helping groups turn ideas into practical opportunities, increase participation and bring people together.
ABC Council said its grant programmes had supported initiatives that improve lives and create opportunities for people to connect across the borough. The celebration provided an opportunity for participating organisations to demonstrate the positive impact of that work through their programmes and activities.
Information for community organisations
Community and voluntary organisations seeking further information about the council’s grants can visit the ABC Council funding information page.