Donegal, Ireland – December 19, 2023. In partnership with Highland Radio, Donegal Lions Club has successfully raised €16,250 to support the Donegal Food Response Network of 22 Donegal Foodbanks. This initiative was made possible by the generous sponsorship from Kavanagh’s Supervalu and the support of the local business community. The funds raised go some way towards alleviating the cost-of-living crisis impacting over 600 families across Donegal this Christmas.
The Donegal (Letterkenny) Lions Club coordinated this innovative online auction through a dedicated website generously sponsored by Kavanagh’s Supervalu. Local businesses rallied behind the cause, contributing over 100 vouchers and 15 physical items, which were then auctioned to a pool of more than 200 bidders over a competitive and engaging 10-day period. The final round of bidding concluded on December 7th, resulting in a remarkable display of community spirit and generosity for the first year of the auction initiative.
The substantial funds raised have already been directly allocated to the 22 foodbanks which are strategically positioned across Donegal. In the first year of this endeavour the Lions Club and its partners have successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of online auctions, capturing the enthusiasm of the community. Winning bidders were delighted to discover that they not only supported a crucial cause but also enjoyed substantial savings, with discounts averaging around 18% off market values on most items. Many kind donors also graciously supported the foodbanks through cash donations via the Donegal Food Response Network website.
John O’Connell – President of Letterkenny Lions Club, said; “We are heartened by the popularity of the auction, the first year of this fundraising method proved successful and couldn’t have happened without the generous support of Kavanagh’s SuperValu, as well as the key partnership with Highland Radio to get the word out and the collective generosity of the local business community. Donegal Lion’s Club hope to repeat the auction next year and are most grateful to all involved in contributing to a successful first year – directly supporting Donegal Food Response Network and their important work.”
“On behalf of the Donegal Food Response Network, I wish to say a massive thanks to John O’Connell and the Lions Club team, the sponsors, business partners, and the Donegal community. Your generosity will provide vital support to the Donegal Food Response Network members at their busiest time of the year. The funds raised will empower community groups to continue their crucial work, offering a lifeline to families across Donegal experiencing food poverty this Christmas. Thank you to all involved for making a real difference in the lives of those in need.” – Margaret Larkin, Head of Operations, Donegal Local Development Clg (DLDC)
Highland Radio, a valued partner in this initiative, promoted each auction item through the John Breslin Show and beyond, highlighting the auction and increasing the overall awareness and bids.
Kavanagh’s SuperValu, who have four stores located across Donegal from Buncrana, Ballybofey, Dungloe and Donegal Town truly made this initiative possible and reflects their commitment to the well-being of their communities.
