This year, 169 incredible organisations are receiving grants totaling €5 million, ensuring that children in every corner of Ireland benefit from your kindness. From essential needs and disability supports to creativity and play programs, these grants address the challenges facing Ireland's most vulnerable young people.
The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal was born from a moment of pure magic when Saoirse Ruane from Kiltullagh, Co. Galway, captured hearts across the nation with her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show alongside her beloved teddy Slush. Though Saoirse sadly passed away in March 2024 at age 12, her spirit lives on through this appeal, ensuring her legacy continues to transform young lives year after year.
Our Three Pillars of Support
Addressing Essential Needs: Supporting children facing the greatest challenges with family support services, food security programs, therapy for those experiencing homelessness, and specialist legal support for children in care.
Health & Wellbeing: Over €1.5 million dedicated to children living with disabilities and life-limiting conditions, providing vital health services, disability supports, mental wellbeing programs, and therapeutic care.
Creativity & Play: Ensuring marginalised and disadvantaged children experience joy, color, and fun through innovative programs that nurture creativity and provide opportunities for play and social connection.
Spotlight: Transformative Grants 2025
Exchange House - €140,000
Thriving Together - A groundbreaking community-led mental health initiative supporting Traveller children and families through peer-led support and crisis intervention, addressing significant barriers to accessing culturally appropriate services.
The Crann Centre - €140,000
Creating Ireland's most accessible play and recreation spaces for children with neurophysical disabilities, featuring inclusive summer camps, the country's first accessible theatre group, and year-round activities in purpose-built facilities.
Jack & Jill Children's Foundation - €140,000
Extending their life-changing in-home nursing care and respite support from age 6 to 7, providing families with an additional year of vital support. Since 1997, they've supported over 3,000 families nationwide.
Women's Aid - €95,000
Expanding the Too Into You project to educate young people about intimate partner abuse prevention, creating awareness and advocacy programs for diverse communities across Ireland.
Beyond the Spotlight
An additional 165 charities across Ireland are receiving support, including household names like Pieta House, The Saoirse Foundation (Bumbleance), Oscar's Kids Ireland, and many grassroots organizations making a difference in their communities.
Over £325,000 awarded to 20 organisations, including Rainbow Child and Family Centre, The Cedar Foundation, and Lightyear Foundation.
Your Impact in Numbers
- €26+ million raised since 2020
- 1 million+ children and family members helped annually
- Every county on the island of Ireland benefits
- 169 grants awarded in 2025 alone
- 5 years of life-changing impact
The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal operates through a partnership with Community Foundation Ireland, a registered charity with 25 years of grant-making expertise. Together, we ensure every euro donated creates maximum impact for Irish children and families.
