Tesco has launched a €100,000 Lighting Up Christmas Fund to help communities across Ireland create festive displays, switch-on events, and local celebrations that make Christmas feel magical.
The fund will provide grants of €5,000 to 20 community organisations to support Christmas lights, festive displays, switch-on events and seasonal activities that bring people together.
The fund is designed not only to support festive celebrations but also to help support the vibrancy of town centres where families, neighbours and visitors can come together, shop locally and enjoy the spirit of Christmas.
Research commissioned by Tesco found that 88% of people agree Christmas brings communities together, while 90% say Christmas lights mark the beginning of the festive season, underlining the importance of local displays and community celebrations at Christmas time.
From Christmas light displays and festive markets to community celebrations and local switch-on events, the fund aims to support the volunteers and organisations who work tirelessly each year to create memorable Christmas moments in their towns and villages.
Community-based, not-for-profit organisations, committees or groups operating in Ireland are invited to apply online.
Applicants are encouraged to share why Christmas matters in their community and how funding would help create a special festive experience in their town or village. Applications will be assessed based on how they will benefit the local community, bring people together, and create memorable festive experiences.
Louise Glennon, Head of Public Affairs and Community at Tesco Ireland, said: ” Across Ireland, dedicated volunteers and community groups work incredibly hard every year to create those special moments for their local communities.
“Through our Lighting Up Christmas Fund, we want to support those efforts and help bring a little extra magic to towns and villages across the country.
“We know that something as simple as lighting up a town can create moments of joy, pride and togetherness that bring communities closer together.”
Minister of State for Charities, Gaeltacht and the Islands & Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, said: “Christmas traditions play an important role in community life, and the volunteers who organise festive lights and seasonal events make a hugely valuable contribution to towns and villages across Ireland.
“As Minister for Communities, I welcome Tesco’s investment in communities nationwide, helping local organisations continue the traditions that bring people together and create a sense of celebration during the Christmas season.”
Applications open on Monday 19 October and close at midnight on Sunday 1 November, with successful applicants announced on 9 November, and Tesco will celebrate the successful projects and the communities behind them throughout the festive season.
Full eligibility criteria and application details are available at https://tescoireland.ie/lighting-up-christmas