Baird's community grants give boost to local groups

Community groups and their good causes in Antrim have received a welcome boost thanks to the latest wave of funding from a local funeral directors’ charitable fund.

Bairds of Antrim Funeral Directors, which has proudly served County Antrim community since 1870, has awarded its latest allocation of grants for this year to three local organisations through its Community Assistance Programme.

They include Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens ‘Christmas Cheer’ project – which was awarded £300 towards the cost of creating and distributing floral pots to residents who are lonely or going through a bereavement.

Ballycraigy Primary School Parent Teacher Association was awarded £300 towards its Primary Help Out Support Club, which provides a safe, welcoming place for pupils as an extension of their school day.

FC Moylena was awarded £300 towards the purchase of new jackets for players to stay warm during training and matches.

All About Us – ASD Teens was awarded £300 for its Buddy Bash project, which celebrates young volunteers supporting their peers with additional needs.

Business Principal Jon Baird said: “We are delighted to support the incredible work of local groups making a real difference for residents and the wider community every day.

“These grants highlight the amazing variety of projects happening on our doorstep, from supporting children and youth sport to helping those going through a difficult time.”

“It’s truly inspiring to see how each of these organisations is positively impacting people’s lives, and we are proud to back them through this fund.”

The donations marked the second round of funding for 2025 through the Bairds of Antrim Community Assistance Programme, a new initiative dedicated to supporting the local community and those in need.

The programme offers grants to small local charities and not-for profit organisations working for the benefit of residents living in the Antrim area. Projects must align with one or more of the fund’s four categories - Health, Education, Employment Opportunities, and Poverty and Social Deprivation.

For more information about the Bairds of Antrim Community Assistance Programme, visit:

www.facebook.com/Bairds-of-Antrim