A €1 million initiative has been launched by Axa Insurance that will see local communities developing and enhancing green spaces in towns and villages. The new environmental grants programme known as Axa Parks aims to support local community projects. The company says the initiative demonstrates “real commitment to improved outcomes for environment and our communities’ wellbeing”.
The fund will support projects, both large and small, with grants ranging from €3,000 up to a maximum of €20,000. It is aimed at voluntary and charitable groups and is designed to be accessible to local communities. Applicants have until May 20 to apply, and successful applicants will be informed in early August, the company said.
Customer and marketing director at Axa Insurance, Antoinette McDonald says hopefully this initiative will help encourage voluntary groups to plan out community gardens, wildlife habitats, pocket forests and urban orchards to brighten up their communities. The only limit is your imagination.
Meanwhile Denise Charlton, CEO of The Community Foundation for Ireland says the new Axa Parks fund is an exciting partnership for The Community Foundation for Ireland, especially given our specific interest in empowering communities to protect Ireland’s native biodiversity. Charlton adds that they are thrilled to support Axa in realising their vision of a grants programme that simultaneously strengthens the fabric of community life, and cares for our local ecosystems which are crucial for a healthy future for our children and grandchildren.
Interested parties can find more information here.