A range of groups and representatives from the voluntary and community sector have voiced their concerns as the cost of living crisis continues.
Members of the Armagh Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership (NRP) met recently with Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey on a visit to the city.
In Portadown, Minister Deirdre Hargey also met with representatives from the Community Intercultural Programme and Scotch Street Youth and Community Centre.
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The Minister heard about the important services they provide in the local community and how the cost of living crisis has affected their organisations and the communities they serve.
She said: “I really value the vital services and support these groups provide to so many and my Department is working to identify opportunities to provide additional support for groups, families and individuals to get through this difficult period.
“However, this remains a serious challenge in the coming months as we move into the autumn and winter months and in the absence of a functioning Executive and no budget in place.
“As I continue my engagement with groups from across the voluntary and community sector I continue to hear about the challenges they are faced with as a result of the on-going cost of living crisis and the negative impact this is having on the groups and communities they serve.
“I want to assure these groups I am listening to the concerns raised and I am committed to doing everything I can to support the delivery of vital services to those in need.”
The community associations represented on the Armagh NRP include the Callanbridge/Legar Hill Residents’ Association; the Callan St, Drumarg and Drumbeda Community Associations; Mullacreevie Development Association; West Armagh Consortium and St Patrick’s Park Residents’ Group.
Community Intercultural Programme came into existence in September 2006 in response to the emerging needs of Ethnic Communities in the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon area.
They support people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, enabling them to fully integrate into and participate in an equitable society which represents difference and celebrates diversity.
Scotch Street Youth and Community Centre (SCYCC) was formed in 2008 to serve the emerging needs of children and young people from the Scotch Street area and beyond.
SSYCC was set up to be, an inclusive club, welcoming all children, young people and community members, regardless of background, into their centre.
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