Kilkenny Lions Club launch Spirit of Christmas appeal

The Lions’ Spirit of Christmas Appeal has been launched in the Newpark Hotel by Lions President Gerry McGovern, Cathaoirleach Michael McCarthy, Mayor Andrew McGuinness, and special guest Brian Cody.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Michael McCarthy said he was delighted to attend the event and to congratulate all involved on 32 years of support for many deserving charities and projects.

“I am aware of the incredible work carried out by the Lions Club in Kilkenny and beyond,” he said. “I want to congratulate the Lions Club on the significant amount of money they have allocated over the years to so many local organisations in County Kilkenny. I know a number of these organisations in Freshford and I know that they are extremely grateful to the Lions Club.

“Your continued support for numerous charities and projects within our local communities is truly commendable.
“Your fundraising activities are well recognised, and your consistent support for local groups and organisations has had a major impact on the beneficiaries.”

Cllr McCarthy said many organisations had benefited from this funding and are extremely grateful to the Lions Club.
“I would like to extend my thanks and acknowledge the work of our local media, Kilkenny People and KCLR96FM, in promoting the Christmas Appeal each year. Your contributions significantly enhance the success of the Appeal annually,” he said.

“The Lions Club, along with many similar organisations, is making a real difference in local communities all over Ireland. Your work in responding to those most in need is incredibly impressive. Whatever the needs of our community, the Lions Club is always ready to offer immediate and long-term help.”

Mayor Andrew McGuinness congratulated the Lions Club on their fundraising campaigns over the past number of years, which has resulted in significant money being distributed to local groups in the city.
The mayor referred to the fact that so many local organisations benefit from the campaign, and he congratulated the Lions Club for the positive contribution they make in Kilkenny City and County. He also thanked all the volunteers in these local organisations who do such great work in our community.

PRIVILEGE
Lions President Gerry McGovern said it was a privilege to launch this year’s 2024 Spirit of Christmas Appeal, and he was delighted that it is again being undertaken in partnership with KCLR and the Kilkenny People. Their professional approach assists greatly the appeal.

He added that the Spirit of Christmas builds on the success of the annual hamper appeal. This and other events, since 2002, have raised more than €900,000 for local organisations.

“We are very proud that 100% of the money collected is distributed to the charities as no administration or other costs are incurred,” he said.

“The proceeds have gone to assist many local organisations such as the St Vincent de Paul Society, Kilkenny Social Services, Church of Ireland, Good Shepherd Centre, Amber Women’s Refuge Centre and many other organisations throughout the city and county of Kilkenny. In total, Kilkenny Lions have supported over 120 local community organisations over that period.

"The primary fundraising is through the auction and sale of goods or services donated by local businesses. The appeal is divided into two sections — a Farm Section and a General Section. The Kilkenny People newspaper publishes the General and Farm Auction lists with names of over 200 businesses over a three-week period prior to and during the auction.

"The goods or services are then auctioned by KCLR96FM on air, and it is hoped over €25,000 will be raised. The farm auction will be on Thursday, November 28, and again on Thursday, December 5. The general auction will run from Tuesday, December 3 to Thursday, December 5."

He thanked the many people who contribute unselfishly each year, including Brian Cody for his unfailing support over so many years, and the 200 or so local businesses, without whose generosity, the auction could not happen; the people of Kilkenny who donate so generously; and members of the Lions Club who give their time each year. Mr McGovern confirmed that the schools’ concert will be on Thursday, December 12 in St Canice’s Cathedral. The annual street collection will take place in mid-December.

He concluded by thanking again everybody for their support of the Lions Christmas Appeal and he is confident that it will be a tremendous success.

Former Kilkenny hurling boss Brian Cody congratulated the Lions for all their great work over the years, and said he was delighted and privileged to have been asked again to launch the appeal.

He referred to the generosity of the people of Kilkenny who are never found wanting in helping the less well off in our community. He also thanked the business community who every year donate a significant amount of items for the auction.
He concluded by wishing Lions every success over the Christmas period.