Since 2015, the Mountain Lodge Community Benefit Fund, owned by Galetech and ESB Independent Energy, has been making a tangible difference in local communities. Over the past nine years, this initiative has provided vital grant aid to 59 community projects, allocating a total of €187,000 to enhance local services, infrastructure, and overall community well-being.
Supporting Local Projects
The Mountain Lodge Wind Farm Community Fund has actively supported projects across a wide range of themes, including:
Active Age – Initiatives that promote engagement and well-being among older adults.
Community Facilities and Services – Enhancements to public spaces and essential services.
Education and Skills – Programs that provide learning and development opportunities.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability – Encouraging eco-friendly initiatives and reducing environmental impact.
Environment – Projects focused on nature conservation and beautification.
Health and Safety – Ensuring safe and healthy community spaces.
Recreation, Sport, and Social Inclusion – Creating spaces and programs that promote physical activity and inclusivity.
Youth Facilities – Developing resources and infrastructure for young people.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The Wind Farm Community Funds are rooted in the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These 17 goals are established as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,
Real Impact: Cootehill Town Team’s Story
One of the many success stories supported by the Mountain Lodge Community Benefit Fund comes from the Cootehill Town Team, which received funding for the upgrading of the Community Playground. The grant specifically helped cover the cost of seating, planters, and a vibrant wall mural.
Philomena McQuaid, representing the Cootehill Town Team Social Community Group, shared:
“With the aid and support of the Wind Farm Community Funds, we as a group have been enabled to participate in providing a much-improved area for the children and parents in our community. Our local playground had grown very tired and neglected. Broken items of equipment were being removed and not replaced. There was less and less on offer for those visiting. When we were successful in our bid for grant aid from the Wind Farm Community Fund, we were then able to work alongside the community to vastly improve the area, provide accessible seating allowing families and groups to be together. The mural creates a colourful, bright space, which improves wellbeing which in turn improves the experience of everyone using the space. None of this would have been achieved without the support of the Wind Farm Community Funds our group received. The application is straightforward and the committee applying felt it is that way to allow groups to be successful in their application. Our community will only improve with this kind of support, the lives of our children and families will only improve because of the support we have received.”
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, the Mountain Lodge Community Benefit Fund continues to be a vital source of support for local projects, fostering sustainable growth and positive change. Through continued collaboration, investment, and dedication to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, these grants will ensure that communities thrive.
For more information on how to apply for funding or to learn about previous projects, please contact Deirdre@galetechenergy.com or visit Mountain Lodge Community Fund.
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