Call to support Nano Nagle Place Give the Gift of Light campaign

Members of the public across Cork are asked to donate to Cork’s Nano Nagle Place annual Christmas fundraising appeal.

The campaign, titled Give the Gift of Light, was inspired by the legacy of Nano Nagle, who carried a light through the streets of Cork to support people in need more than 250 years ago.

This year’s appeal focuses on the stories of Leonid Dobrianskyi, a Ukrainian man who came to Cork after fleeing war in his home country, and Fabrice Fortune, his English tutor.

Mr Dobrianskyi arrived in Cork with very little English, and no social connections.

He attended the Cork Migrant Centre, a Nano Nagle Place programme, where he met Mr Fortune and began rebuilding a life in Ireland.

“I didn’t just learn English here, I made friends from all over the world,” said Mr Dobrianskyi.

“Nano Nagle Place has become a big part of my life.”

Prior to teaching English at the migrant centre, Mr Fortune had rebuilt his own life in Ireland through Nano Nagle’s programmes.

“Education gave me a second chance in Ireland,” said Mr Fortune.

“Now I try to pass that light to others.”

John Smith, CEO of Nano Nagle Place, said that Nano’s lantern “has always symbolised hope for those who felt forgotten”.

“Today, that light shines in our classes, in our community spaces, and in the lives of people like Leonid and Fabrice.

“This Christmas, we are asking the people of Cork to help us keep that light shining for everyone who needs belonging, learning, and hope,” said Mr Smith.

“Your gift helps ensure Nano’s light continues to shine, for people rebuilding their lives, for those seeking community, and for anyone who needs a place of welcome and compassion.”

Members of the public can support the appeal by making a donation online via the Nano Nagle website: www.nanonagleplace.ie/light.

All money raised from the appeal will help to sustain the educational, cultural, and community programmes that empower people to rebuild their lives with confidence, belonging and hope.