Christmas dinner for those in need
Mary Dennehy
ALL LOCAL businesses are being encouraged to do any workplace charity collections for this year’s community-led Christmas dinner for the homeless.
For the second year running, a free Christmas dinner is being held in Tallaght Adventure World for anybody alone or homeless this December 25, with an invitation extended to people right across the community of South Dublin County.
Led by the independent councillor Dermot Richardson and Tallaght resident Catherine McKenna, Christmas dinner was last year served to over 140 people, who also enjoyed entertainment and were given gifts, medical advice and free essentials such as toiletries, warm clothes, hats, scarfs and blankets.
The day, which should have cost in the region of €6,000, was staged without spending a penny, due to the outpouring of support by residents and local business.
Organisers are this week calling on businesses to donate items off their ‘wish list’ (see below) and encouraging staff organising Christmas collections in their workplace to consider collecting for the individuals and families who will attend the Christmas dinner.
Cllr Dermot Richardson said: “Once again we have had an overwhelming response from the community, the day is only possible because of the great support from people and businesses across the area.
“We really can’t thank people enough, there’s no words to describe the difference they’ll make to those who come for dinner on the 25th, alongside generating a feel-good factor for the entire community in the run-up to Christmas.”
He added: “We do not need any more volunteers for the day, but are looking for businesses or local employees in a position to donate any of the items off our ‘wish list’ to do so.
“We are also looking for some people to provide live music on the day. We have a DJ, but would like some live music and anybody interested and available is encouraged to get in touch.
“At the moment we are catering for around 200 people and have transport available to collect people and bring them to Tallaght Adventure World.
“This day is also for people who are alone or isolated this Christmas and for families living in hotels across areas, such as Tallaght and Clondalkin.”
The day is being run with support from community-led service VISIT, a voluntary soup kitchen in Tallaght, Pranic Healing Ireland, South Dublin County Council and local homeless support services.
Call 087 2036468, 087 6410110 or drop into Tallaght Adventure World for further details.
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