F & P supporting Christmas Toy Appeal 2025 with Kinsale & District Lions Club
Kinsale & District Lions Club in Collaboration with CUH Charity
Kinsale, Co. Cork — The Kinsale & District Lions Club is proud to announce its Christmas Toy Appeal 2025 in collaboration with CUH Charity at Cork University Hospital , a much-loved annual tradition that brings joy, comfort, and the true spirit of Christmas to children in Cork hospitals this Christmas . In partnership with CUH Charity, the appeal has grown into one of the region’s most inspiring community events — a shining display of generosity and compassion. Each year, the people rally together to donate brand new toys, ensuring that children spending Christmas in hospital feel remembered, supported, and wrapped in kindness. What began as a simple act of giving has evolved into a powerful community movement of positivity and hope which has grown year on year. The toys are safely transported with the assistance of An Garda Siochana and the blue light emergency services.
A Community united in acts of Kindness
The Toy Appeal benefits all children in Cork University Hospital (CUH) & Local charities, groups, and family support organisations. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the joy of Christmas reaches families across Cork city and county including the Mercy & South Infirmary Hospitals. The team at CUH Charity will be there to welcome Santa and his team from North Pole HQ on arrival with the help of the Coastguard. It is a joyous occasion to spread some festive cheer in good company of the army band.
Celebrating New Members of Kinsale Lions Club
This year’s Toy Appeal has been strengthened by the enthusiasm of the members of Kinsale Lions Club, who have already made a remarkable impact. Their energy, ideas, and commitment to community service have helped expand the reach of the initiative and help in the growth of the club which has recently received a prestigious club excellence award by Lions Club Ireland & Lions Club International recognising outstanding service to the community. The active club is also running a food appeal, tree of remembrance, Christmas Day Swim and other initiatives this December to support the local community with their volunteers.
“On behalf of our members, collaboration partners and organising committee have brought extraordinary positivity and dedication. Their willingness to serve and spread kindness has made this Toy Appeal even more special this year. A huge thanks to all who have supported this appeal already and the public support for this initiative which is refreshing to see . ” — Cormac Fitzgerald, President, Kinsale & District Lions Club
CUH Charity – Bringing Hope to Children in Hospital this Christmas - The collaboration with CUH Charity ensures toys are delivered to children throughout Cork University Hospital, bringing comfort, joy, and emotional support during the festive season. A cornerstone supporter, MMD Construction continues to demonstrate exceptional community spirit. Each year, they donate a significant number of toys, provide team volunteers, and offer logistical support — reflecting their deep commitment to giving back & CSR . Their team involvement plays a vital role in spreading kindness throughout the region. The collaboration with the excellent team at MMD has been a positive help in growing the appeal and initiative. To have the Cork GAA players to give of their time is always very welcomed and brings joy to the occasion. Thanks also to the corporate sponsors of this initiative each year.
Defence Forces, Army Band & Classical Soprano Amanda Neri – Bringing Christmas Magic
The Toy Appeal is elevated each year by the support of the Irish Defence Forces, the Army Band, and acclaimed classical singer Amanda Neri. Their participation fills the Cork University Hospital grounds with festive music and heartfelt emotion, creating unforgettable moments for children, families, staff, and volunteers. Amanda Neri’s beautiful performance, combined with the Army Band’s uplifting melodies, adds warmth, celebration, and a magical sense of Christmas spirit. The army band are always a joy to listen to and accompany Santa on his visit safely escorted.
A Thank You to Our Community, Collaborators & volunteers
The Lions Club extends sincere thanks to:
• Garda Síochána
• Fire Service
• Coastguard
• Civil Defence
• Ambulance Service & HSE
• Cork GAA players & Sporting legends
• Local clubs & community organisations and the huge support from the public.
• Kinsale Lions Club volunteers including Gerry O Dwyer & Con Cadogan and all the committee leading this collaboration including the blue light emergency services.
The team at CUH Charity led by Claire Concannon & team at MMD. Also a huge thanks to Santa, his elves and helpers who travel a long distance to make the event and hopefully will be cleared for landing on the day. Each plays a meaningful role in spreading kindness and joy to children at Christmas. Some special guests will also be in attendance. Thanks to all our friends and supporters of Kinsale Lions Club.
How You Can Spread Joy This Christmas
We invite the public to donate brand new toys only to ensure every child receives a safe, special, and memorable gift.
Toy Drop-Off Points Please :
Kinsale Area :
• Fitzgerald & Partners Chartered Accountants, Kinsale
Contact: Linda Farley 021 4774500
Cork Area :
• MMD Construction, Cork Airport Business Park
Contact: Amanda Lennox 021-4975979 alennox@mmd.ie
Every donation reflects the heart of our community — kindness, compassion, and the belief that every child deserves a moment of Christmas magic. Please visit our website for further information on :