The Government has insisted it is on course to meet its target of funding 100 Family Resource Centres around the country by the end of 2006.
Minister for Social Affairs Seamus Brennan said plans were under way to increase on the 88 centres currently operating as he opened the new Knockmay Family Resource Centre in Portlaoise, Co Laois.
"The services provided by community resource groups are often emotional and practical lifelines for those who may be going through particularly traumatic situations and experiencing a range of problems that combine to leave them feeling isolated and powerless," he said.
Mr Brennan said the target set by the Government under the National Development Plan of funding 100 Family Resource Centres by the end of 2006 will be delivered.
There are 88 Family and Community Services Resource Centres operating, while another three have recently signed contracts.
A further nine groups have already been approved for inclusion in the programme. Funding for the scheme has increased from €317,500 in 1994 to over €12.9 million in 2006.
The Knockmay area has a population of 770, of which over 400 are aged under 18. The Family Support Agency has funded the project to the tune of more than €134,000.
The Resource Centre will provide childcare facilities, courses for adults, a youth club and space for support groups.