Winter News 2025
Your Support Made Ben’s Christmas Brighter
Thanks to your incredible generosity, Christmas was a time of hope and healing for Ben and his family.
Last year, Ben faced a holiday season filled with uncertainty. Living apart from his parents and grappling with the stress of family difficulties, he struggled to see the magic of Christmas. However, with your help, Barnardos was able to step in and provide the support Ben and his family so desperately needed.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Ben worked closely with his project worker, Diarmuid, in our calming family room. With time and patience, Ben began to open up, sharing his experiences and learning how to express his emotions.
By Christmas morning, Ben’s home away from home was filled with warmth and joy. With the help of donors like you, he had presents under the tree and decorations to brighten the day. Most importantly, Ben spent meaningful time with his family, including visits from his parents. For Ben, this Christmas brought moments of happiness and connection he will always remember.
Your kindness has set Ben and his family on a hopeful trajectory. As they continue to work together with Barnardos, they are taking steps toward a brighter, more stable future.By Christmas morning, Ben’s home away from home was filled with warmth and joy. With the help of donors like you, he had presents under the tree and decorations to brighten the day. Most importantly, Ben spent meaningful time with his family, including visits from his parents. For Ben, this Christmas brought moments of happiness and connection he will always remember.
Why Donors Like You Mean Everything to Us
In 2023, Barnardos provided vital support to over 26,000 vulnerable children and families across Ireland, an increase of 25% from the previous year. Vital work was carried out to help these families facing the challenges of poverty, adversity and mental health struggles. This work would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of donors like you.
Your support helps change stories of struggle into stories of hope. Whether it’s giving a child the tools to overcome trauma; helping a family create a stable home; or providing a safe space for healing, your donations have a profound and lasting impact.
Thank you for being the cornerstone of our mission to give every child the chance at a brighter future. Together, we’re transforming lives.
Read the full 2023 Annual Report.
A New Chapter for Emily
Emily, just 10 years old, arrived at Barnardos carrying the weight of more challenges than any child should face. Her family had been struggling with financial difficulties that left their home life unstable. Emily’s school noticed her frequent absences and quiet withdrawal in class and referred her family to Barnardos for support.
At first, Emily found it difficult to open up. Her project worker, Ciara, provided a safe, welcoming space where Emily could share her thoughts at her own pace. Through weekly art therapy sessions, Emily began to express her feelings, drawing pictures that revealed her fears and worries about her family’s struggles.
While Emily was being supported, Barnardos also worked closely with her parents, connecting them to financial advice services and parenting workshops. This holistic approach helped stabilise the family’s situation and improve their ability to provide a nurturing environment for Emily.
Over time, Emily’s confidence blossomed. She started participating in group activities with other children, building friendships and rediscovering the joy of play. At school, her attendance improved, and her teacher noticed her growing engagement and enthusiasm.
Thanks to the support of donors like you, Emily’s story has changed from one of uncertainty to one of hope. Today, Emily is thriving, and her family is stronger than ever, equipped with the tools they need to face challenges together.
Your generosity helps change stories like Emily’s every day. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of children and families who need it most.
Because childhood lasts a lifetime.
