Over 200 homeless people treated to a special Christmas day
By Mary Dennehy
AN INCREASE in the number of families living without appropriate cooking facilities was evident at a community-led Christmas dinner for the homeless on December 25.
Now in its second year, the free Christmas dinner catered to more than 200 people, who gathered at Tallaght Adventure World for a three course Christmas dinner, entertainment, gifts and packs of essentials such as toiletries and warm clothing.
Organised by Independent councillor Dermot Richardson and Tallaght native Katherine McKenna, with immense support from local organisations, including VISIT and South Dublin County Council, businesses and residents, the dinner cost in the region of €10,000.
However, not one penny was spent due to the sheer volume of donations and the level of volunteering.
Homeless people from right across South Dublin County and its environs attended on the day, with the invitations also extended to people living alone or families living in hotels.
Katherine McKenna told The Echo: “Sadly the number of families who have no appropriate cooking facilities appeared to have increased this year due to the number of families in emergency accommodation in hotels.”
However, due to a massive response from the community, these families and more were treated to a special Christmas Day, with included a visit from Santa – who was loaded with gifts.
Cllr Richardson said: “The day would not have happened if it was not for the support from the volunteers and donations from the community and local businesses of South Dublin.
“We would estimate the cost of this event in the region of €10,000 and not one cent was spent – we even had couriers bringing soft drinks and 60 selection boxes from a GAA club in Kilkenny!
“On St Stephen’s Day extra food was dropped into the Capuchin Day Centre and we are in the process of sending more food parcels and clothing that was donated into different local community projects.
Due to the generosity of the public we were also able to provide hampers to families in need locally and as far as Westmeath prior to the Christmas too and we would like to sincerely thank everyone for their kindness and wish everyone every success for 2016.”
Pranic healers and a doctor were also available on the day while Gibbons Coach Hire provided free transport to and from the event and DJ Jess and the Sisterix Band provided entertainment.
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