Dublin Bus Community Support Programme
As the largest public transport provider in The Greater Dublin Area, Dublin Bus plays an integral part in the various communities that make up its customer base. Over the years the company has implemented various corporate social responsibility programmes as a way of building links with different communities. Chief amongst these initiatives is the Dublin Bus Community Support Programme (CSP).
The Dublin Bus Community Support Programme was launched in December 2003 as a way of recognising the valuable work done by local charities and voluntary groups based across the Dublin Bus service network. Ex-international footballer and Sunderland Chairman, Niall Quinn has been patron of the initiative since its inception.
This is the 8th year of the programme and to date, over 1,000 groups have received funding from Dublin Bus with many worthwhile causes in communities across Dublin being helped.
Under the programme, Dublin Bus awards grants to these groups in the amounts of €5,000, €2,000, and €1,000. The grants are funded from long-term unclaimed change receipts.
Under the terms of The Community Support Programme, local groups can apply under the following headings:
- Children
- Sport
- People with disabilities
- Older People
- Environment and the local community
- Education- alcohol, drugs, literacy, and health
Entrants must submit a proposal with details about their organisation and the item/event etc which they wish to have funded. The application is then judged by an independent adjudicating panel. The winning entrants are invited to the awards ceremony where they receive details of their individual award.
Any group that is located within the Dublin Bus service network- including Greystones, Kilcock and Clonee can apply for funding. Successful applicants last year included; Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Console, Crosscare Carer Support Programme, Fettercairn Youth Horse Project, Foxettes Majorettes, Greenbow, Rutland National School and St. James Gaels GAA Club.