Onder Karayigit, General Manager of the Redbank Guesthouse, with Rowena Walsh of the SCA
This Christmas, the Skerries Community Association collaborated with Skerries woman Katie Byrne in a very successful Christmas gift drive for Red Bank residents. Katie had done the gift drive herself in 2023 and 2024, so we very much benefitted from her experience in organising the 2025 endeavour.
Katie took on matching a member of our community to shop for a gift for each and every child living there. In addition to the toys, the SCA funded a gift for every adult, and many people donated seasonal treats to ensure every family had something extra to enjoy over Christmas.
Alongside the gifts was a thoughtful note from Katie and the SCA, letting the residents know that the Skerries community is thinking of them and wishing them a happy, healthy year ahead.
Just some of the presents donated for the Christmas gift drive
Katie and the SCA want to say a massive thank you to everyone who signed up. Demonstrating the generosity of the town, we were actually over-subscribed with volunteers. To those of you who signed up but weren’t matched with a child this time: please know that your willingness to help is the foundation of what makes something like this possible every year.
Seeing so many people put their hands up to support our neighbours is exactly what makes Skerries such a special place to live. Whether you bought a children’s gift, dropped off a box of chocolates, or simply stood ready to help, you each are what makes this possible every year.
Messages from Red Bank
We gave the residents the opportunity to share a message with the community if they wished. Their responses were incredibly moving and here are a few I wanted to share just a few (anonymised) quotes so that illustrate the impact of the generosity of the town:
“Children are so happy. Thanks for your kindness!”
“Thank you so much for the Christmas gift. It has warmed my heart and uplifted my spirit. Much appreciated.”
“My daughter was so happy, and it really brought joy into our home. I truly appreciate the kindness and support from the Skerries community.”
“God bless you and thank you so much for doing this for us.”
“Thanks to all of you who make our Christmas colourful… we are so happy for your wonderful gifts. We will not forget your kindness.”
Knowing that these families felt seen and supported is the best start to the year we could ask for.