Government’s promised $5m special grant funding programme for faith-based organisations will officially begin in June, according to Minister of the Third Sector Colin Jordan.

Cabinet has ratified the programme, which is intended to support faith-based organisations in delivering youth-focused initiatives aimed at social development and community engagement.

The funding will support programmes centred on health and wellness, crime prevention, youth engagement and life skills development, among other areas designed to strengthen young people’s participation in society.