Barnardo's ask for monetary donations rather than toys as Christmas campaign is launched

Barnardos’ children’s charity today launched their Christmas appeal to call on the public to help give children a happy Christmas by donating online at www.barnardos.ie/christmas or by calling 1850 216 216. This year the children’s charity is not asking for toys – but for donations to allow the organisation provide more practical gifts for the families they work with.

Another way to support Barnardos is by purchasing a ‘Gift for Good’ - an alternative gift to buy for family or friends in lieu of a present this Christmas. By purchasing a ‘Gift for Good’ on behalf of a loved one you are directly benefiting a child or family Barnardos works with.

Barnardos CEO Fergus Finlay said: “Following our work with many generous public and corporate supporters and talks with the man in red himself, we know every child we work with will get a toy this Christmas.  However, we have identified the need for more practical gifts for families such as pyjamas, slippers, books, duvets, pillows, bedding and food vouchers.  Some of the families we work with are not in a position to provide or regularly replace these items.

“We also know that this Christmas more than 3,194 children will be homeless. We work to provide supports to many of these families. The children will be facing a Christmas of uncertainty, and we want to make them as comfortable as possible this year. Each family has different needs to the next, but your donation will allow us direct your help how each need it most.

Barnardos is currently working with more than 14,100 children and families across its 40 centres throughout Ireland and campaigns for the rights of all children in Ireland.

Barnardos Director of Fundraising, Mary Gamble, said: “This year, in response to requests from families we work with, we are launching our alternative gifts programme - ‘Gifts for Good’. By purchasing a ‘Gift for Good’ on behalf of a loved one, in lieu of a present, you are both directly benefiting a child or family Barnardos works with – and your loved one receives a card that shows the importance and impact of that support. The gifts are based on the most used items by families and will support them this Christmas and throughout the year.  With a selection of five available, they cover practical areas at Christmas time - https://www.barnardos.ie/giftsforgood”