Minister Patrick O’Donovan is encouraging older people who are currently cocooned during the current Corona Virus Pandemic, to consider applying for financial assistance under the Red Cross and Age Action Hardship Fund. The fund is designed to help people who experiencing difficulties at the moment, with a once off €500 grant towards costs that they may currently be experiencing.
The scheme is designed for assist people with; providing technology like iPads and smart phones for people who might like to WhatsApp or video message their family and friends, upgrades to appliances, contribution towards additional security costs in the home, utility bills and other costs.
“This is a very good scheme and is designed to help people who are currently cocooned at home. I particularly welcome the fact that the grant can be used to purchase phone or tablets, because I know from dealing with people across the County, that many of our elderly residents do not have smart devices, and this grant will certainly help them to purchase one. It will allow them to see family and friends and will go a long way to helping to reduce isolation.”
Carers, social workers, community groups, and voluntary organisations providing assistance to older people can also apply.
People can apply online for the grant by emailing hardship2020@redcross.ie They can also call Patrick O’Donovan’s office on 069-77998 or email patrick.odonovan@oir.ie and an application form can be emailed or posted out. Patrick O’Donovan’s office is also available throughout the pandemic to provide information and assistance on the operation of this grant scheme and other matters.
The closing date for applications is 31st August 2020.*
*The Closing date for these applications was brought forward to April 24th due to the large volume of applications recieved.
