Over the last two years, the AIB Community €1 Million Fund has supported more than 150 charities across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain. Earlier this year, AIB asked its customers, the wider public, and staff to again nominate registered charities, that connect with causes that matter most to them and their communities, in the AIB Community €1 Million Fund.
Cancer Focus NI is one of Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charities, providing care and support to cancer patients and their families. The charity helps people to live their most fulfilled lives with access to world-leading, equitable cancer support, treatment, diagnosis, prevention and research.
The charity will be using the funding to provide soft furnishings, play equipment and art supplies for children in one of their new Therapeutic Support Centres opening on Enniskillen’s high street in early 2025. One of the main services in the new centres will be a family support service, helping children whose parents have received a cancer diagnosis through group and one-to-one support, social activities, as well as art and play therapy.
Speaking about receipt of the award, Rosie Forsythe, Corporate & Community Fundraising Manager at Cancer Focus NI said: “We are so grateful to receive this funding from the AIB Community €1 Million Fund, it is going to make such a difference to the support we can provide to children whose parents or guardian have received a cancer diagnosis.
"At our new Cancer Support Centre in Enniskillen, local families will be able to access a range of family support services all under one roof. Offering a space that radiates a sense of sanctuary and welcome, our charity will help families create priceless memories and help children through a really difficult time alongside their peers, so that they know they are not alone in the journey.
“We are so touched by everyone who thought of us and nominated us for this funding. It shows just how much our efforts in the community are appreciated and acknowledged, and a huge thank you to the team at AIB for making this possible. Together, we can support local families on their cancer journey.”
Speaking about the Fund, Paul Doyle, Branch Manager at AIB Donegall Square North, Belfast, said: “The AIB Community Fund gives much needed support to local charities helping them continue to provide services in communities across Northern Ireland. It’s the third year for the AIB Community Fund and it’s amazing to see both customer and public support for nominations, this really demonstrates the importance of local charities and their contribution they make. I would like to thank our customers and the public for taking the time to nominate these very worthy charities.’’
For more information on AIB’s work in the community visit www.aib.ie/community.