A recent Openreach Community Fund Impact Report released by the CFNI has highlighted the significant positive impact the fund has had in the lives of many within local communities.
The report reveals that in the 2023-2024 period alone, £54,196 was awarded to 29 successful applicants, with each applicant receiving an award of up to £2K.
Investing to better connect communities is core to delivering Openreach’s ambition to enhance people’s lives. Its rollout of the Full Fibre broadband network means communities across Northern Ireland can get access to Openreach’s best broadband yet.
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Speaking about the Openreach Community Fund, Garrett Kavanagh, Director at Openreach in Northern Ireland said: “I continue to be immensely proud of Openreach’s transformative impact in building community connections right across Northern Ireland. The recent CFNI Impact Report highlights our dedication and commitment to ensuring those who are more disadvantaged from within our communities get the support they need.
“Our ongoing investment in communities is having grass-roots impact and we are seeing outcomes where communities are being better connected, have improved mental health and well-being, and upgraded social networks.”
A recent beneficiary for the fund includes the charity organisation In This Together. Their aim is to support people who need it most by working to prevent isolation and food poverty within the East and South Belfast area.
Christina Henderson, founder of the charity organisation In This Together added: “The Openreach Community Fund has been a game-changer for us, by providing significant funds enabling us to give a helping hand to those who may be struggling. These initiatives are making a significant difference to the lives of those facing isolation and food insecurity in East and South Belfast.
“The application process for the fund was extremely straight forward and easy to complete, and the practical support from the Openreach team has been hugely helpful. I would strongly encourage local communities who need additional financial and practical support to apply.”
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