The idea of organized charity dates back many centuries and so it’s very difficult to pinpoint the exact date of the first fundraising event in Ireland. One of the earliest recorded fundraising events though was the creation of the Society for the Relief of the Unemployed Poor in Dublin in 1818.
Famine Times
The Famine Relief Fund, which was started in 1846 during the Great Famine, was another of the early fundraising initiatives, setup
They gathered money to support those who were struggling during the recession by buying food and other necessities.
They organized numerous fund-raising activities, such as concerts and charity balls.
The challenges in fundraising in Ireland have evolved over the years, but some of the persistent issues include a lack of public awareness about certain causes and the ever increasing competition among the numerous charities for limited resources.
Philanthropic Culture
We have always had a strong philanthropic culture in Ireland. Individuals and organizations have been dedicated to helping the many charities spread throughout Ireland and have a significant impact on those in need.
Here is a list of the top ten charities in Ireland, along with a brief outline of their mission:
- Irish Global Concern is a humanitarian organization working to combat poverty, hunger and inequality in developing countries. They focus on providing emergency relief and long-term development programs, including education, health and food insecurity. Concern Worldwide also advocates for policy changes that address the root causes of poverty and inequality.
- The Irish Cancer Society through prevention, early detection and support services helps to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals and their families.
- Barnardos mission is to deliver services and work with families in Ireland. They help to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences.
- Focus Ireland is a charity working to end homelessness in Ireland. They provide a variety of services, including emergency shelter, family support, and long-term housing solutions.
- Sightsavers Ireland is an international charity that works to prevent avoidable blindness and promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Their programs focus on eye health, education and disability rights.
- Pieta House is a suicide prevention charity that provides counseling and support services for people in distress or crisis. They operate a range of programs, including one-to-one counseling, therapy groups, and a 24/7 helpline. Pieta House also advocates for policy changes to try and address the root causes of suicide.
- GOAL is an international humanitarian organization that works to alleviate poverty and suffering in developing countries. Their programs focus extensivly on emergency response, sustainable development, and advocacy for policy changes that address the root causes of poverty and inequality.
- The Simon Community in Ireland: The Simon Community in Ireland is a charity that works to support people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
- Trócaire is an international development organization that works to eradicate poverty, promote human rights and respond to emergencies in developing countries.
- MS Ireland is a charity that supports people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Ireland. Their many programmes aslo include information and support services, physical therapy, and home care assistance.
The ten charities listed have relied on the generosity of people for many years to fund their services. There are a lot of different ways that both individuals and organizations can support these important causes. Please do what you can through volunteering your time, advertising their events or donating.
Offaly Charities
I would also add to this list, two very important charities in my own region…. Offaly Hospice and Dóchas Offaly Cancer Support Group.
These two organisations have provided quality care in terms of holistic cancer support services and end of life services to people throughout the Midlands.
