GALs Hospice coffee morning

Pictured from left: Pauline Casey, Anne Murphy, Ida Rooney, Jean Cummmins Theresa Rooney, Mary Denim, Mary Ward, Betty Campbell, Gretha Williams, Margaret Gray, Bonnie Boylan, Dolores Cahill.by Kathrin Kobus

Every September, Ireland’s biggest coffee morning takes place.

All over the country people host get-togethers over a hot drop for the annual fundraiser for Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services, based in Harold’s Cross and Blackrock.
This year was a very special one marking the 25th anniversary or silver jubilee of the calendar event.
Bewley’s provides the coffee free of charge for the fundraisers with two euro charged for every cup sold to the attendees, who also queue to purchase raffle tickets.
These tickets, three strips for a fiver or one strip for €2.00 also help to increase the funds raised. Plus additional money is raised with the sale of home-baked muffins, scones and knitted baby clothes.
The local GAL’s group from Ringsend and Irishtown was hosting the event for the second year. They had taken over the fundraiser from Mary Thompson and Angela Murphy last September and Mary attended this year’s event as an unofficial guest of honour.
Mary Ward, speaking for them said. “We wish to thank again on behalf of the GAL’s, the many small businesses and shops in Ringsend, Irishtown, Sandymount, from Barrow Street and South Lotts Road, from pharmacies to publicans who helped us and contributed the raffle presents.”
The winners for nearly 70 prizes, from foodie hampers, wine bottles, toys and far more besides were called out to receive their prizes in a cheerful and party like atmosphere.
The total raised this year was €2789.01 up by more than €200 from 2016.

by Kathrin Kobus