Westmeath parent and toddler groups to share €12,700 in funding for toys, equipment
Fourteen parent and toddler groups across Westmeath are to benefit from €12,700 in funding, it was announced today.
The funding is being provided under the 2025 Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative and will help cover the cost of toys, equipment, books, children’s snacks and refreshments, as well as arts and crafts, music activities, cleaning supplies, and even insurance and rent in some cases.
Welcoming the announcement, Minister Peter Burke said: “This is great news for families across Westmeath. The grants will directly support 14 local parent and toddler groups, from Delvin and Ballinahown to Athlone and Mullingar, helping them continue to offer safe, welcoming spaces for parents or childminders to connect, and for toddlers to play and learn together.”
He said groups can also use the funding for things like parenting courses, paediatric first aid training, and buggy walking groups, which, he said, are a great way to encourage parents to get active and socialise outdoors.
“The work these groups do in bringing parents and children together is important, especially for those who are new to the area or new to parenting.
“I want to thank every group across Westmeath for the time and energy they give to making these sessions such a vital part of community life,” Minister Burke concluded.
The following groups in Westmeath are to receive funding:
• Delvin Parent Toddler Group - €1,000
• Presentation Senior School - €300
• Castlepollard Community PT Group - €1,300
• Glasson Tubberclair PT Group - €970
• Barnardos - €1,000
• Áras an Mhuilinn Irish Speaking PT Group - €1,300
• Bunbrosna PT Group - €1,300
• Collinstown PT Group - €800
• WCD Baby Café Athlone - €778
• WCD Baby Café Mullingar - €800
• WCD PT Group Mullingar - €800
• Killucan PT Group - €800
• Oodles and Doodles - €800
• Ballinahown PT Group - €800
The scheme, which is part of First 5 – the whole of government strategy for babies, young children, and their families, is managed locally by Westmeath County Childcare Committee. A total of €421,618 has been allocated to 461 groups nationwide this year – an increase of 66 groups on last year.