Support urgently needed as back-to-school costs soar in Donegal

With the back-to-school season upon us, families across Donegal are feeling the immediate strain of rising education-related expenses. The Donegal Food Response Network, supported by the Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC), has urgently launched its back-to-school appeal for donations to your local community groups, helping those most affected by these financial pressures.

In response to this growing need, the Donegal Food Response Network, composed of 21 community organisations across the county, is asking for food donations, school supplies, vouchers, and cash. These contributions will be distributed to local families struggling to make ends meet during this challenging time.

As the demand for assistance has skyrocketed, community groups, which typically maintain emergency supplies, are finding their shelves increasingly bare - leaving many families without the support they desperately need.

Donegal Food Response was set up to help those who are struggling to make ends meet and find themselves having to make difficult choices between essential basic needs such as food. Food poverty is an ever-growing problem in Ireland and our aim is to support Donegal families by providing nutritious food and meals.

Those looking to support their community can find details of their nearest foodbank by visiting Donegal food response. Donations of food, school supplies, or cash can be made directly to these local food banks.

Back to school fundraiser

For those unable to visit in person, donations can also be made online through the iDonate pages of individual community groups. Links to these pages are available here, making it easy for anyone to contribute, no matter where they are.

Margaret Larkin, Head of Operations of DLDC, highlights the severity of the situation: "The costs of living and running a household continue to surge, making it increasingly difficult for families to manage the added burden of back-to-school expenses” states  Margaret Larkin, Head of Operations of DLDCwhen highlighting the severity of the situation.

“Some families face the harsh reality of sacrificing groceries to ensure their children have the essentials for the new school year."

Mary Coyle, Manager or Ionad Naomh Padraig, a member of the Donegal Food Response Network, added:  "Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of local families. By supporting your local food banks and community groups, we can help ensure that no child goes without the essentials they need for a successful school year."

To donate, please visit the iDonate pages associated with the following registered community group by visiting www.donegalfoodresponse.ie