The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal has been a significant initiative in Ireland, with generous donations from the community helping children across the country have a more enjoyable childhood. In 2020, Saoirse Ruane from Kiltullagh Co Galway made a lasting impact on the nation with her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show, leading to a surge in donations for the official RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. Despite Saoirse’s passing earlier this year, her legacy lives on through this important cause.
Saoirse’s parents, Roseanna and Ollie Ruane, recently joined Late Late Show host Patrick Kielty to pay a special tribute to their daughter. To honor Saoirse’s inspiring contribution, donations to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal have opened a week earlier this year, ahead of the upcoming Late Late Toy Show on December 6th. Contributions can be made on the official RTÉ Toy Show Appeal website or through their donation partner, Revolut Pay.
In memory of Saoirse, a grant award of up to €150,000 will be presented in her name to a selected charity in 2025. This grant, known as ‘The Saoirse Ruane Grant,’ will be part of the 2025 appeal allocations and can be utilized over a two-year period. Kevin Bakhurst, the Director-General of RTÉ, expressed gratitude to the audience for their support over the past four years, emphasizing the positive impact the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal has had on numerous children and families across the island.
The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal has provided 359 grants to 226 children’s charities in Ireland over the last three years, benefiting over 1,100,000 children and family members annually. Managed by Community Foundation Ireland, which has a long-standing history of supporting not-for-profit organizations, the appeal operates with the highest standards of trust and governance. Donations can be made through the official RTÉ Toy Show Appeal website or using the Revolut Pay app.
The generosity of the Irish community has been instrumental in making a difference in the lives of many children through the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. With donations opening earlier this year and the establishment of ‘The Saoirse Ruane Grant,’ the legacy of Saoirse Ruane continues to impact and transform the lives of young individuals across the country. To stay updated on the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage and subscribe to their daily newsletter.
