Over €18,000 in additional funding announced for Athlone Family Resource Centre

Additional funding of €18,000 has been announced today for Athlone Family Resource Centre, as part of increased core funding set out by the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley.

The minimum funding level for Family Resource Centres will be increased from to €160,000 to €180,000 in January 2026.

This will benefit 100 of the 126 Family Resource Centres around the country whose current funding is below the new €180,000 minimum level.

Speaking about the announcement, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran TD said: "I'm delighted to see Athlone Family Resource Centre receiving additional funding this morning, a recognition for the vital work they carry out with children and families."

Chairperson, Padraig Hegarty, said the funding ecognises the essential role of Family Resource Centres around the country.

“As Chairperson of Athlone Family Resource Centre, I warmly welcome Minister Foley’s announcement of increased core funding for Family Resource Centres in 2026. This commitment recognises the essential role centres like ours play in supporting families, building community resilience, and delivering inclusive programmes.

"For Athlone FRC, sustained funding is not just welcome—it is vital to continue our work in responding to growing needs across the town and surrounding areas. We see this as an investment in people, in wellbeing, and in the future of Athlone.”

Athlone Family Resource Centre welcomes the increased funding as a positive step, but stresses that continued investment and the establishment of a permanent facility are essential to secure long-term service delivery.

The Centre remains committed to working with government, local representatives, and the community to ensure Athlone families have access to the support they need.