Meath County Council has launched a new app to encourage healthier lifestyles, build community connection, and offer people the opportunity to support local organisations simply by enjoying their parks, beaches and other local amenities.

The ‘Civic Dollars’ app allows users to earn virtual ‘Civic Dollars’ by checking in at designated outdoor locations throughout the county. Outdoor activities such walking, running, cycling, and participating in community events will help residents build credit that can be redeemed for rewards or donated to local groups.

Community and voluntary organisations in Meath will directly benefit from the app: residents can donate their civic dollars to local groups, which can then exchange them for practical supports.

The initiative is supported through the Healthy Ireland Fund Round 4, funded by the Department of Health, with further funding through Meath PPN, and is overseen by the Meath Local Community and Development Committee (LCDC).

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Wayne Harding said: “Civic Dollars is about strengthening community life in Meath. It rewards people for getting involved locally, supporting one another, and taking positive steps for their own health and wellbeing while building stronger, more connected communities.”

“Civic Dollars represents a fresh and exciting way to encourage people to spend time outdoors and explore Meath’s public spaces, while supporting the voluntary groups that are the backbone of our communities,” according to Seamus McGee, Chair of the Meath Local Community and Development Committee. 

Welcoming the collaborative approach, Aisling O’Donnell, Healthy County Co-ordinator for Meath, noted that strong communities are central to good mental health. “Civic Dollars helps create opportunities for connection, purpose, and prevention, which are key to supporting positive mental health and wellbeing across all ages,” she added.

For more information visit www.meath.ie or download the free-to-use Civic Dollars app