Charity nights raises €23,000 for three charities supporting children with Down syndrome

A sold-out charity night at Glenamaddy Community Centre has raised €23,350 for three organisations supporting children with Down syndrome and their families. The event drew a crowd of around 500 people from Glenamaddy and neighbouring communities, filling the hall with goodwill, generosity and emotion.

The fundraiser was organised by Hannah Morgan and Kevin Dolan, along with their families, inspired by their son Jonah, who has Down syndrome. They were strongly supported by Martina and Tony Gibbons of Heneghan’s SuperValu Glenamaddy, whose involvement helped elevate the event into a standout success.

One of the biggest highlights of the night was a lively cookery demonstration by SuperValu brand ambassador Sarah Butler, who delighted the audience with her humour, warmth and infectious energy.

Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated evening featuring local crafts and charity stalls, live music, finger food, wine, goodie bags, spot prizes and a bumper raffle. The atmosphere throughout the night was described as uplifting, emotional and full of positive energy.

The funds raised will be shared between three organisations - Roscommon Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland, The Perfect Gift, and The Extra Special Parent & Toddler Group.

Speakers on the night included Hannah Dolan, Martina Gibbons, Tommy Mulry (Roscommon Down Syndrome Ireland), Sinéad Fidgeon (The Perfect Gift) and Laura Horan, founder of The Extra Special Parent & Toddler Group.

Laura recalled how her group began in 2022 during the Covid period, a time when families struggled to access community support.

“Our group began with a simple vision to create a safe, supportive and welcoming space for families of children with Down syndrome,” she said. “In just a few short years, it has grown into a vibrant community of over 40 families.” She outlined the group’s expanding range of supports, including parent and toddler sessions, therapeutic yoga, baby massage, play therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, physiotherapy-based workshops, family days out and seasonal celebrations.

“Everything we do is guided by one core belief — that our children are amazing and deserve opportunity, joy and community, and that no family should feel alone on this journey.” She extended sincere thanks to the Dolan and Morgan families, Martina Gibbons, all SuperValu staff, Sarah Butler and every volunteer and supporter, noting that the funds raised will allow the group to continue its essential work and create new opportunities for families.

Sinéad Fidgeon spoke about founding The Perfect Gift in 2016 after her own experience of having a child with Down syndrome.

“When I was pregnant with my daughter Grace, the negativity started straight away. It was suddenly as if she was less — and that hurts,” she said.

Since then, The Perfect Gift has delivered over 1,000 gift baskets to families of newborns with Down syndrome across Ireland. Each basket — funded entirely through donations and crowdfunding — includes books, toys, clothes, candles and a personal letter.

“The whole message of the basket is: congratulations. You’ve just had a beautiful, perfect baby,” Ms Fidgeon said.

Families then receive an invitation to join Down Right Perfect, the charity’s online support group, when they feel ready.

Tommy Mulry of Down Syndrome Ireland (Roscommon) also expressed gratitude to Sarah Butler for her generosity and professionalism, and thanked all volunteers, sponsors and attendees who made the event possible.

With proceeds exceeding all expectations, the €23,350 raised will now support the vital work of the three beneficiary organisations across Roscommon and Galway, ensuring families continue to access the services, connection and community they deserve.