'It's about giving camaraderie': Kildare army man helps save charity for veterans

A dedicated Corporal in the Defence Forces Reserve has successfully led a fundraising effort to help to save a much-needed charity in Kildare. 

Corporal Francis Harrigan, from Newbridge, recently ran the Dublin Marathon to raise €3,000 for the St Michael’s Branch of the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (ONE) in Athy. 

The ONE charity, including the local St Michael’s Branch, is a lifeline for Irish Defence Forces veterans, providing shelter, advocacy and hope for those facing homelessness, isolation or the struggle to rebuild life after service.

According to Corporal Harrigan, this lifeline was under “serious threat” as the Athy branch office was moved from its home on Main Street. The team behind the organisation are fighting to return to its former headquarters, where veterans could drop in for advice or support. 

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“Recently, the branch has been under a bit of pressure to stay open and they lost their office, so we had decided to try and do something to raise funds so that they could secure a new office. Fortunately, we've done that. We've raised the €3,000,” exclaimed Mr Harrigan. 

After compiling individual charity donations, funds raised by former colleagues in the Army Reserve and permanent Defence Forces as well as corporate donations from Ryan’s Pharmacy Group, Irish Tax Rebates and the Etex group, the organisation will remain operating. 

Commenting on the fantastic amount raised, Corporal Harrigan said, “It's about giving camaraderie and support to people who, in the prime of their lives, gave it to others through their service to the state and to the community. I think the least we can do for these veterans is to try and keep them in an environment where we show that they're appreciated for what service they give and continue to give. 

“It just means a lot to me to be able to support the people who once supported us,” he added. 

Since 2020, the Newbridge native has been raising funds for this vital charity through a series of endurance events, from marathons, ultra-marathons to ultra-distance cycling challenges, each kilometre is driven by the same goal: to keep this essential veterans’ lifeline alive.

This year’s Dublin Marathon was his next step in this “deeply personal” mission. 

Running alongside the Corporal was Áine Lennon, a very supportive friend, recreational runner and cardiac echo sonographer at the Black Rock Clinic. She also helped raise these vital funds, with many colleagues donating to the cause as well. 

The pair completed the marathon within just minutes of one another. Ms Lennon finished in four hours, six minutes and 52 seconds while Mr Harrigan completed it in four hours, 12 minutes and 56 seconds. 

Currently serving as a Corporal in the Defence Forces Reserve after first volunteering in 2002, this cause is close to home for Mr Harrigan as his father and grandfather each gave 34 years as Non-Commissioned Officers in the Permanent Defence Force. 

“Service runs in our blood and I cannot stand by while a veterans’ support centre in my local town disappears,” said the Corporal. 

All donations will go directly towards bringing St Michael’s Branch home to Main Street in Athy, keeping its doors open, paying essential bills and ensuring that no Irish veteran is left behind. South Kildare’s only dedicated veteran support hub will now continue doing what it does best. 

ONE are also seeking new volunteers, open to both ex-service personnel and civilians, at the St Michael’s Branch in Athy, who are aiming to help keep this vital work alive.