Merchants Quay Ireland (MQI) has been helping people experiencing homelessness and addiction for over 30 years, and our roots go back further to the Franciscans who set up a tearoom in the 80s, helping people who came to our door with nothing. This ethos of kindness and compassion is very much part of who are today.

MQI with the support of the HSE and the Department of Health opened Ireland’s first Medically Supervised Injecting Facility (MSIF) in December 2024. MSIF is part of our health-led approach to addiction, to reduce drug-related deaths, reduce the risk of disease transmission, reduce public health risks as well as providing a vital safe place for people in addiction.

The previous Minister of State at the Department of Health, Catherine Byrne established a Community Fund to benefit the local community surrounding Merchants Quay, within a defined geographical boundary. MQI is managing this fund in partnership with a wider stakeholder group.

MQI are making you aware of the fund and to offer the opportunity of applying for a funding grant, if you choose to do so. The types of projects supported in our previous round of applications include projects for young people (sporting activities, youth engagement projects, community support.

The closing date for receipt of applications of 12 noon on Friday 9th May 2025.

You can complete our short application form here

Please see attached below the Policy for the administration of the Community Fund which sets out the basic conditions pertaining to applications.

Should you have any questions related to the fund, please contact us on 01 524 0160 or email communications@mqi.ie