Longford St Vincent de Paul offering seasonal support

Christmas 2022 saw the return of a tradition that brightens up the lives of families who find themselves in difficult circumstances. For over a decade staff members of Abbott Longford have donated boxes of toys to the Longford branch of St Vincent de Paul.

Though Covid restrictions put a halt to the practice for the last two years, this year the generous gesture returned. Cyril Hussey, is a member of Longford SVP and a former president of the voluntary organisation. He said the support of the Abbott workers has been excellent: “We were very happy to accept a consignment of toys very kindly donated by Abbott. It makes all the difference to us as we wouldn’t be in the position to get toys or anything like that ourselves.”

Each of the staff members at Abbott were given a box, with the box assigned a gender and age range. The task of filling the boxes was left up to participants. Cyril explained: “Each box is nominated an age 2-4, 4-6 or 6-8, and gender. They then put whatever they feel like they want to donate.”
The boxes were distributed to children in need throughout Longford, ensuring they are not left wanting this Christmas: “It's a supplement to families at a very stressful time of the year,” explained Cyril.

He added, “It helps them out and is important for their children. We can only give out what we get in. We have no income other than the support we get from the public. We totally depend on the generosity of our supporters.”

Cyril said the cost of living crisis is very apparent to St Vincent de Paul volunteers. “We have seen a big increase in the number of inquiries. We do our best to support as many people as possible.”

If anyone wants to volunteer, make a donation or start a toy collection campaign of their own, they can contact Longford SVP directly or call in. Cyril said, “We are always looking for volunteers. We offer training and if people like to help out we would be delighted to accommodate them.”