Ballykelly Residents Association

Forced to close their centre so soon after being established in January 2020, Ballykelly Residents Association has since entered a shared management agreement with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council to work on improving the range of facilities they can offer upon re-opening.  Catering for the entire community through parent and toddler groups; youth clubs; and older residents activities, the organisation aims to provide a social outlet for everyone.  In particular, they intended to run a summer scheme for 5-16 year olds (including a cooked meal and guidance on diet and a healthy lifestyle) and applied to the Irish Society for help purchasing art and craft materials, board games and sports equipment plus additional kitchen items.  Councillor Dobbins confirmed that child poverty is a major issue throughout NI and has increased dramatically over the last year as a result of Covid.  She added that this residents group has very little funding and requested that we be as generous as possible to them.  Also supported by Councillor Boyle, a grant of £1,000 obo The Drapers’ Company was approved.