Asda Foundation Helps Transform Local Community Space in Belfast with £20,000 grant

The Asda Foundation has announced over £1 million of funding for 73 community projects across the UK through its Local Community Spaces Fund, with Saints Youth Centre in West Belfast among the successful organisations receiving support.

The group has been awarded £20,000 to support a range of essential repairs including upgrading electrical systems, replacing doors and windows, improving site safety and carrying out exterior cleaning and painting.

The funding forms part of the Asda Foundation's final year of investment through its five-year commitment to improving community spaces across the UK. Since 2022, the Foundation has invested more than £5 million in projects that help local organisations create, improve and maintain vital community facilities.

Community spaces continue to play a vital role in bringing people together. Research from the Asda Foundation's Community Insight Tracker found that 79% of funded groups believe community spaces help reduce isolation, while 77% said they help build social connections and 76% said they provide safe spaces for people of all ages.

Karl Doyle, Chair of the Asda Foundation, said:

"Strong communities need safe and strong spaces. Whether it's somewhere people can access advice, take part in activities, develop new skills or simply spend time with others, community venues play a vital role in everyday life.

We're delighted to support 73 organisations this year through the Local Community Spaces Fund. These projects will help improve accessibility, protect important local facilities and create welcoming environments where people can come together, feel connected and access the support they need."

Catherine Stewart, Youth Support Worker at Saints Youth Centre, said:

"We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding from the Asda Foundation. The grant will enable us to create a safer, more accessible and energy-efficient environment, helping ensure the centre remains fit for purpose for the many young people and community groups who use it throughout the year.

“This investment will make a real difference to everyone who uses our facility, and help us continue supporting our local community for years to come."

Ann-Marie McCallion, Community and Customer Champion at Asda Westwood, said:

"We're incredibly proud to see Saints Youth Centre receive this funding through the Asda Foundation's Local Community Spaces Fund. The organisation does fantastic work in our community and this investment will help ensure even more local people can benefit from their services and facilities."

The funding was awarded following a competitive application process, with 73 projects selected from 749 applications submitted by organisations across the UK.

For more information about the Asda Foundation, visit www.asdafoundation.org.