The United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is back in focus for 2026, with gov.ie confirming new support for community-led awareness projects across Ireland. In a fresh call from the Department of Social Protection, eligible organisations can now apply for funding to run local and national events that highlight poverty, social inclusion and the lived experience of vulnerable groups.
Published on 20 July 2026, the announcement outlines how the annual UN day on 17 October will again be marked through public awareness initiatives organised by community and voluntary organisations. The scheme is designed to help groups working directly with people experiencing poverty and social exclusion.
United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty funding opens for 2026
According to the Department of Social Protection, funding is now open for projects linked to the 2026 observance of the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The closing date for applications is 14 August 2026.
This year, additional funding is being made available to support anti-poverty organisations in the context of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The move aligns social inclusion efforts with wider national priorities around competitiveness, security and values.
The initiative reflects how departments across gov.ie, including areas connected to Social Protection, Health, Education, Housing and Children/Disability/Equality, increasingly frame poverty awareness as part of broader public policy and community wellbeing.
Who can apply for support?
The funding is aimed at eligible organisations working with people affected by poverty at either national or local level. Approved applications may include projects involving:
- Children and young people
- People with disabilities
- Women’s groups
- Minority communities
- Local anti-poverty and social inclusion organisations
The department said a wide variety of activities may qualify, provided they contribute to public awareness and meaningful engagement around poverty issues.
What types of activities may be funded?
Groups applying under the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty scheme can propose a broad mix of events and outreach work, including:
- Artistic and cultural programmes
- Exhibitions
- Public talks and panel discussions
- Community workshops
- Local awareness campaigns
The emphasis is on practical, accessible events that give communities a platform to discuss exclusion, inequality and the importance of social inclusion in Ireland.
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Why this matters in Ireland in 2026
The United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is more than a symbolic calendar date. It gives community groups, service providers and public bodies an opportunity to draw attention to barriers that still affect households across Ireland, from income insecurity to exclusion from services.
While the Department of Social Protection is leading this funding call, the issue of poverty connects with many public institutions and sectors, including the Health Service Executive (HSE), the Citizens Information Board, Tusla, Local Government and Heritage, and agencies involved in employment, education and housing supports. That makes the annual observance relevant across both policy and grassroots action.
How to apply
Interested organisations are encouraged to review the UN Day Funding Brochure and complete the official application form for public awareness funding. For direct queries, applicants can contact the Social Inclusion Division at socialinclusion@welfare.ie.
Anyone planning a proposal should ensure it clearly explains the target audience, the planned activity and how the event will raise awareness of poverty and inclusion in an Irish context.
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Key dates and takeaway
The key deadline is 14 August 2026, with funded activities expected to support awareness around 17 October. For community and voluntary organisations, this is a timely opportunity to turn the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty into practical local action.
As highlighted on gov.ie, the funding programme recognises that tackling poverty starts with visibility, participation and informed public discussion. For groups already working on the ground, the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty offers both a platform and financial support to make that work heard. Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
