The ESB Electric Aid Ireland fund is to provide €1m per year for programmes aimed at suicide prevention and care for the homeless.
The fund, which was initiated by ESB Chief Executive, Padriag McManus, was launched in Dublin today by the Minister for Communications, Noel Dempsey.
Speaking at the launch, Mr McManus said "we are all aware of the pain associated with these two phenomena. Both suicide and homelessness are complex problems requiring complex responses."
The two themes were arrived at by way of an ESB staff ballot.
Mr McManus complemented the staff on their selection, adding, "as a socially aware company, it is in the area of funding that I think ESB can contribute in a very tangible and practical way in addressing difficulties that undermine the fabric of our society."
Electric Aid was formed almost twenty years ago when staff at ESB formed the fund and the company contributed. Then, the fund was mainly aimed at overseas aid projects however, this year the fund will be directed towards causes in Ireland.
Organisations applying for funding may do so by completing an application form available from ESB Electric Aid Ireland, 27 Lower Fitzwilliam Street Dublin 2.