Claddagh Report

Covid-19 support Requests for support Since our last report Claddagh continues to be very busy responding to members of the Irish community affected by Covid-19. So far, we have received 158 requests for assistance. On average, during the pandemic, Claddagh’s monthly workload has increased tenfold compared to last year. The chart right shows the range of issues for which we have provided support. During June, the most requested assistance was for information and support about travel restrictions. Many members of the Irish community need to return to Ireland for various urgent reasons and those who are permanent residents or Australian citizens must get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs before they can make the journey. Government of Ireland COVID-19 Response Fund for Irish Communities Abroad Claddagh successfully sought funding from the Government of Ireland COVID-19 Response Fund for Irish Communities Abroad. This funding was provided so that Claddagh can work on two new projects with Irish Seniors, provide essential information and more engagement with the Irish Community and provide emergency relief for those in financial distress due to COVID-19 (see below for further details). Claddagh gratefully acknowledge the support of the Irish Government which enables us to fulfil our mission of supporting members of the Irish community in WA in difficult circumstances.

Crisis Support: 0403 972 265 13/15 Bonner Drive Malaga 6090. Enquiries: 08 9249 9213

www.claddagh.org.au

Above: A chart showing the range of issues for which Claddagh have provided support.

Claddagh’s COVID-19 Fund As you know the Claddagh Association receives funding from the Government of Ireland’s Emigrant Support Programme to cover administration and projects. We cover the costs of the direct support we offer to members of the Irish community in difficult circumstances through fundraisers run by ourselves and held by other wonderful individuals and Irish community organisations. COVID-19 restrictions have been preventing Claddagh from holding our fundraising events, but we anticipate that we will need to raise over $100 000 to support the Irish community in WA through the pandemic. The Claddagh committee have allocated $50,000 from our previous fundraising efforts to a COVID-19 fund. As detailed above, the Government of Ireland have contributed a grant of $20,000 to Claddagh for distribution to those in need in the Irish community in WA during COVID-19. Claddagh plans to hold a matching grant, digital fundraiser and an event later in the year for the remaining $30,000 that we believe will be necessary to support the Irish community during this time. We’ll publicise more details closer to the time so keep an eye on our Facebook page. If you or anyone you know in the Irish community is in financial hardship due to COVID-19, please contact Claddagh Coordinator Anne Wayne on admin@claddagh.org.au/08 9249 9213 and she will forward details about applying for emergency assistance from Claddagh.