Crosshaven RNLI challenging people to 'Bake and Donate' to raise vital funds

Crosshaven RNLI Lifeboat Station has launched a Mayday fundraiser with a difference this year.

Normally, volunteers would be shaking buckets and a collection would take place where pins would be sold and various different fundraising events such as coffee mornings, lunches, and swims would be organised locally.

This year due to Covid-19, Crosshaven RNLI organised a ‘Bake and Donate’ online fundraising event where people are being asked to bake a treat of their choice with an RNLI theme.

People can donate through its Facebook page and send their baking creation to crosshavenrnlifundraising@gmail.com to be shared on social media.

A spokesperson for Crosshaven RNLI said: “Although we’re all being asked to stay home at the moment, the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crews are still on call 24/7, ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice when the pager sounds, to go out and save lives at sea.

“As part of the Covid-19 response, just like every other first responder group, The RNLI drew up guidelines in how to to care for those saved and to keep their crew and the public safe. This allows crews to be available to continue saving lives at sea 24/7.” Like many other Irish charities and businesses, the RNLI is facing challenges when it comes to income and the funds raised will go toward training and vital equipment needed for both the station and boat crews.

RNLI Fundraising Manager Danny Curran said: “Our Mayday fundraising campaign is a vital event in the RNLI calendar and given the current situation it is more important than ever. For years, our fantastic fundraisers have given their time and energy in May to help our lifesavers.

“But the welfare of our volunteers, staff and supporters is our priority, and the usual range of activities are now impossible. So, this year, Mayday will look a bit different. While many fundraising events and gatherings have been cancelled, our lifeboat volunteers are still responding to their pagers and launching in lockdown.

“So, we are encouraging our supporters to take on fundraising challenges at home. That way they will be able to help protect our lifesavers, while also keeping themselves and others safe,” he said.