02/06/2026
Celbridge Camera Club Presents €1,732 Donation to St. Raphael’s Parents and Friends
Celbridge Camera Club was delighted to present a donation of €1,732 to this year’s charity partner, St. Raphael’s Parents and Friends, following the successful sale of the club’s annual calendar.
The presentation took place at the Slip Hall in Celbridge on 18 May 2026, where the club meets every Monday night from September to May. www.celbridgecameraclub.net
Speaking at the presentation, CCC Chairman Paul Gibney, praised the exceptional quality of the members’ photographs featured in the calendar and added that the annual calendar, which showcases images captured by club members, has become a much-loved community project and continues to enjoy tremendous support from local businesses in Celbridge, each of whom sponsors a month of the calendar.
Paul thanked the sponsors, retailers, and local community for their continued support, noting that their generosity make it possible for the club to make a meaningful contribution to an important local charity. Representatives from some of the business sponsors were present on the night to support the event. Jacinta & Martina Flynn from Miriam Porter’s Opticians T/A Rods & Cones, Pat Shaw from Castletown Press and Aida Best representing Croi Laigheann Credit Union.
“The production of the annual calendar is made possible through the sponsorship of local businesses and the support of local retailers who help sell it each year,” Paul said. “It is the perfect example of community spirit and local businesses coming together to support such a worthy charity.”
St. Raphael’s Parents and Friends raises funds to provide additional comforts and supports for residents beyond the primary care services already provided by St. Raphael’s. The charity holds a special place in the local community and supports many families in the area and further afield.
Mairead Flanagan, who has worked with St. Raphael’s for more than 30 years in St. John of Gods residential care and now mans the St. Raphael’s Charity Shop for the past 23 years with the support of approximately 20 loyal volunteers, accepted the cheque on behalf of the organisation. She said the donation was greatly appreciated and would be put to excellent use.
She explained that the funds would help support celebrations and social events for residents, including parties and day trips, as well as the purchase of sensory room equipment and other small luxuries that enhance residents’ overall quality of life. She also noted that the charity is currently trying to acquire a hoist for one of the residences and that this donation would assist greatly with that project.
This initiative is a wonderful example of businesses, community groups, and charities working together for the benefit of the wider community.
Celbridge Camera Club would like to sincerely thank all sponsors, retailers, supporters, and everyone who helped make this year’s calendar another success.
Sponsors - Castletown Press, Rods & Cones Opticians, Michelangelo restaurant, The Orchard, Home & Garden, Absolutely Fabulous Flowers, Team Lorraine Mulligan RE/MAX Results, Real Estate Agent, Rye River Brewing Co., The Abbey Lodge, Ready 4 Road Driving School Croí Laighean Credit Union, Walsh’s Pharmacy, Lucan District Credit Union.
Retailers - The Orchard, St. Raphaels Charity Shop, The Maynooth Bookshop, Absolutely Fabulous Flowers, Walshs Pharmacy, Main St. and Tesco SC.
