Larne groups recognised by Lloyd’s Bank Foundation

The work of Larne-based community organisations has been recognised at a special 30th anniversary reception at Stormont.

Among those who attended the reception – organised by the Lloyd’s Bank Foundation for Northern Ireland – was Maureen Hanvey of Learning to Grow in Magheramorne, which received a grant of £4,000 from the foundation towards its horticultural therapy programme.

Other groups to receive funding included Larne YMCA, which received £2,000 to supports its health programme and Carnlough Community Association, which was awarded £3,000 towards its community administrator’s post.

The Foundation has distributed £32.5m grant aid to more than 8,000 charities since it formed 30 years ago.

The figures were revealed the anniversary bash at Stormont recently, which aimed to recognise and celebrate all of the organisations it has helped to improve the lives of disadvantaged people.

Since it was formed in 1985, the Foundation has funded a wide variety of groups dedicated to supporting deprived communities.

Sandara Kelso-Robb, executive director of the Foundation said the organisation would continue its vital role in funding valuable projects.

She added: “We are proud to have been part of the life of Northern Ireland for the past 30 years and it will continue to provide support to the thousands of people and organisations that make a huge difference to deprived communities.