Innovative fundraiser at The Lough aims to raise €20k to bring sick children to Disney 

Volunteers from a Cork charity are hoping local people will help to create a full circle of euro coins around The Lough this coming June bank holiday weekend, creating a ring of hope that will raise €20,000 to help to bring sick children to Disneyland Paris.

Members of Cork City Hospitals Children’s Club and members of the public are being invited to ‘Lap The Lough’ with euro coins from 11am to 2pm on Monday, June 2.

Organiser Ernest Cantillon said volunteers would be on hand to direct members of the public to their individual stations around The Lough, where they will get to place their coins themselves, metre by metre, in a symbol of unity, compassion, and community spirit.

“Break into your change jar or piggy bank to bring €2 or €1 coins to this novel fundraiser, or you can exchange your notes or cards for coins on site, to create a ring right around the inside path of The Lough,” he said.

The event is being organised by Mr Cantillon along with former lord mayor Mick Finn, Pat Fitzgibbon, John Looney, Eimear McCarthy, and Emer O’Mahony, who will all bring businesses and the wider Cork community together — with the additional help of The Lough Scouts and The Lough Credit Union.

Cork City Hospitals Children’s Club works to make dreams come true for young patients, organising experiences such as trips to Disneyland Paris, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Mr Looney, who is a long-time supporter of the Children’s Club, said that with some help from the public, the charity would be able to give even more children something to smile about.

“There’s something very special about this event,” he said.

“It’s about showing up, giving what you can, and doing something simple, but powerful, for kids who really need a lift.”

Mr Cantillon added: “We are hoping to literally surround The Lough with kindness.

“Whether you give €2 or €200, you’re part of something magical.”

To donate, email lapthelough@gmail.com, or see https://eclv.ie/lough.