Appeal to put together a little Christmas cheer for children

A SPRINKLING of Christmas cheer will be brought to children in emergency accommodation and domestic violence refuges in Tallaght in the coming weeks courtesy of a local woman.

Sarah Notaro, who is from Brookfield, is appealing to the community to donate selection boxes and small toys to her fundraising drive which will culminate in a festive Santa event for the children.

This isn’t the first time Ms Notaro has held an event of this nature – in 2020 she organised an event where 127 children in a local homeless hub got to meet Santa and his elves and have some Christmas treats.

When asked what motivates her to carry out her charitable endeavours, Ms Notaro said: “I decided to do it as I myself left a relationship due to domestic violence.

“I also worked in a refuge in recent years and I’m currently training in social care.

“I know how hard and lonely it can be for children when they’re not at home for Christmas.

“I just want to create a beautiful Christmas memory for them, rather than a negative one.”

Ms Notaro wants to create gift bags for up to 130 children who are living in emergency accommodation in Tallaght and in two local domestic violence refuges.

“On November 23, the night before the Late Late Toy Show, I’ll go as an elf with invitations for the children and with sweet bags and toys,” she said.

“I’ll let them know that Santa has invited them to a big party the following week.”

Santa and his band of merry elves will be at the event, as will a DJ and face painters, and Ms Notaro is asking for local businesses and people to consider donating to the event.

Donations can be in the form of selection boxes or small toys, or perhaps donning an elf costume and helping out on the day.

Contact Sarah Notaro on Facebook if you can help.

“I just hope that the kids will have a really good day,” said Ms Notaro.

“I know it sounds cheesy, but I want to put hope back into Christmas for the children that will be there.”

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