Campaign to bring festive cheer to children in Direct Provision
A Christmas campaign aims to raise €25,000 to provide presents and vouchers for children living in direct provision.
The Your Child is my Child Campaign aims to bring festive cheer to migrant families in Cork’s direct provision centre, specifically giving gifts to more than 485 children living in the 11 Direct Provision centres in Cork. The funds will also support hosting Christmas parties for the residents, ensuring the festive spirit reaches every corner of Cork’s community.
It was launched by Direct Provision Events who are partnering with Saoirse Ethnic Hands on Deck, Cork Migrant Centre, and dedicated UCC lecturers and students.
Dr Mike FitzGibbon, lecturer in International Development at UCC, who plays Santa Claus each year at the Christmas parties said: “It means so much to me and to others because we’ve witnessed the kind of lives that the children are subjected to because of the consequence of Direct Provision and the way that children are marginalised or feel marginalised.
“So any opportunity we get to reduce that level of marginalisation or put a little bit of happiness into their lives I don’t think that we have any option but to take the opportunity.”
Sinead Mulry, Programme Coordinator for Direct Provision Events, said: “Last year we gave presents and vouchers to 489 children. It was fantastic seeing how excited they were to receive these presents and attend the Christmas parties.
“One mother shared her relief, expressing that without this campaign, she feared she wouldn't be able to afford a gift for her children. She worried about how they would feel returning to school, hearing their classmates' excitement in the new year,” she added.
Vera Stojanovic, CEO of Saoirse- Ethnic Hands on Deck said: “We joined this campaign in 2023 because we strive to advocate for the migrant community. I was astounded by the positive response from the public and I hope we can reach our fundraising target this year to spread joy to the 489 children and their families.”
A survey from KPMG reported the average Christmas food shop is €254.70, with an average of €407.40 spent on gifts. Adults living in Direct Provision receive a weekly allowance of €38.80 while children receive €29.80. The campaign’s goal is to reduce the stress on these families during this time.
To donate, search for Your Child is my Child Campaign on GoFundMe.com.