Galway Students’ Union raises record €53,275 for two charities in year of fundraising events

Today, April 29, the Students’ Union has presented the proceeds of their year of fundraising events to Galway Rape Crisis Centre and Cancer Care West, and revealed they raised a total of €53,275 for the two charities – the most ever raised by the Students’ Union.

The Students’ Union held fundraisers throughout the year culminating in the triumphant return of Raise and Give Week in February which included events such as the Firewalk, a head shave, a charity auction, a 5km fun run, a Taylor Swift Night and a 5 A Side Tournament. They also held a giant Christmas Raffle, saucy Sex Toy Bingo, Take Me Out, a Harry Styles Night, and Galentine’s Day Brunch.

Included in the total amount raised is a €20,000 donation from Sult, Smokey’s Café and the Students’ Union Shop.

Students’ Union President Dean Kenny said: “We're delighted to have raised the most money ever in our Union's history for charity, and it's all thanks to every single student that got involved with any of our events throughout the year.

“We’d also like to thank the University for giving us this opportunity to bring Raise and Give week back to its roots, raising money and bringing back that sense of community on campus. I’m also delighted that our student owned services on campus helped out in the fundraising efforts with a great initiative by donating the proceeds of a levy on single use coffee cups, which further demonstrates our commitment to sustainability."

Students’ Union Vice-President for the Irish Language Officer Faye Ní Dhomhnaill added: “In what has been a stressful year with the continued cost of living crisis it’s great that the students and staff of University of Galway have put such a huge effort in to raising funds to help others. We are delighted to be presenting €53,275 to these two amazing charities who do so much for those in need. To have raised so much is a great achievement for all involved.”