A European Union pilot scheme was established in Cork to combat poverty. The project was set up to examine the socio-economic needs of the people in the Northside of Cork City. From this pilot, the Cork Combat Poverty Resource Project was born. This project sought to support local people facing poverty and social exclusion.

The first resource centre in Cork opened its doors to the community. A new housing estate in Knocknaheeny was developed and action groups were set up to deal with issues in the area including lack of transport, lack of suitable schools for children and youth work.

Write Together Adult Literacy Scheme founded – the project offered a series of adult basic education supports to learners wanting to better their reading and writing. Cork VEC provided some funding in 1983 which carried the scheme into the present day. Today Write Together is funded by the CETB (Cork Education and Training Board) and supports now extend to maths, computer skills and driving theory test.

European funding ceases. The project is now run by local people and those previously employed join the ranks of the unemployed and continued to voluntarily staff the resource centre. The project team initially planned to continue their activism for 6 months. This dedication extended into years. Extensive work is done with the Travelling community prioritising the welfare of women over this time. Publications such as “Who Speaks for the Poor” emerge from this period.

Volunteers continue to staff the resource centre. Some staffing is taken up by FÁS on a part- time paid basis. A second centre is opened in Ardmore Avenue and this is to become the home of Mná Feasa.

Mná Feasa – Domestic Violence Project is set up as a response to calls received when a local woman was murdered by her husband in their home. The group started a two-hour a week helpline staffed by women who had themselves travelled the road of domestic violence. Since it’s launch work has intensified on a needs- basis and has received funding to date through the HSE, Victims of Crime, Department of Justice and most recently, Cuan.

The Cork Anti Poverty Resource Network (CAPRN) is launched and awarded official charity status.

Women Supporting Women established – A mentoring programme for women parenting alone. The project is the outcome of local voluntary groups of women coming together, sharing a philosophy of anti-poverty work and community empowerment.

Cork City North Mature Women’s Action Group launched – A collective of Mature Women working towards change. The group publish a bulletin regularly, addressing the needs of older women in the community “Old and Bold”

Páistí @ No. 3 Childcare established – Childcare facility. Páistí @ No. 3 aims to provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment, which embraces all children and their parents. It values their race, language, gender, ability, culture, class and religion.

The Cork Anti Poverty Resource Network continues to thrive with the support of core funding and the dedication of its volunteers. The Network is governed by 8 board members who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the charity, some who have been involved since the founding days of CAPRN. Employees, Volunteers and friends of the Network eagerly anticipate celebrating it's 50th anniversary in 2026.