Support groups and voluntary organisations that provide family counselling were today encouraged to apply to the Family Support Agency for 2008 grants.
The agency has received a €10.95 million budget for 2008 from the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Last year, 533 organisations received funding from the agency.
Grants are available for support activity in the areas of marriage counselling services; marriage preparation programmes; counselling services to children whose lives have been affected by parental separation; and bereavement counselling.
Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Martin Cullen said: "Voluntary and community groups around the country which provide a counselling service play a pivotal and valued role in helping families and individuals cope during what can be particularly stressful times in their lives and in their relationships."
The closing date for applications is February 22nd.