ESP Grants: Supporting the Irish Diaspora
In the latest census data there are some 39 million Americans who claim Irish heritage, a figure many times larger than the current population of the island their ancestors called home. Add to this the 150,000 Irish born that now call the US their home and the size and strength of the Irish Diaspora in the United States becomes apparent.
Strengthening connections with Irish communities abroad and promoting links with Irish people and those of Irish ancestry worldwide is one of the core goals of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Irish Embassies and Consulates around the globe. Central to achieving this objective is the Emigrant Support Programme (ESP), which provides financial support to projects which address the needs of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable Irish emigrants. It enables Irish emigrants and Irish community organisations to access vital local services such as healthcare, education, and housing. It also aids in funding community-focused services such as the Irish Heritage Club, Seattle and others which encourage closer links between Irish communities abroad and Ireland, to the benefit of both.
While the support of frontline welfare services continues to be the priority of the ESP, the expansion of the programme has enabled the Government to invest in a range of cultural, community and heritage projects, which foster a vibrant sense of Irish community and identity. Residents of Montana will be aware of the great work of the Montana Gathering project which documents the stories, experiences and contributions of Irish migrants to the state over the years. The ESP funds strategic capital projects, such as the substantial support given to San Francisco GAA clubs to develop their own fields and clubhouse on Treasure Ireland in the Bay. These grants are a key part of the Government’s approach to developing strong and meaningful links with Irish communities overseas and to securing the long term future of these communities.
This year alone, the Emigrant Support Programme has provided more than $2 million to 34 organisations across the United States. Organisations in the Western US have received some 20% of these funds. The Consulate is proud of the work that these funds allow organisations to carry out. "The ESP grant has been invaluable in allowing us to support the elderly and vulnerable in our community and assist new arrivals to Southern California, both temporary and permanent. Where the traditional Irish strongholds on the East Coast have a significant historical support network to assist new arrivals, the ESP grant is vital to ensure that Irish Outreach can continue to play that role in our fast growing community in this region" Stephen Aherne, Executive Director, Irish Outreach San Diego.
The 2016/17 ESP grant round is now open and will close at 5.30pm PST on Wednesday 24 February. Further details on programme objectives and priority project areas.