Red Cross raises €1m for flood relief

FLOODING: THE IRISH Red Cross has reached its target of raising €1 million in its floods disaster appeal.

FLOODING:THE IRISH Red Cross has reached its target of raising €1 million in its floods disaster appeal.

The appeal was launched at the end of November in response to the severe flooding around the country. Counties including Cork, Galway and Clare bore the brunt of the floods and many families have not yet returned to their water-damaged homes.

Irish Red Cross acting secretary general Declan O’Sullivan said the body had received an overwhelming response from members of the public, businesses and the media in its appeal. Most of the money was donated in the run-up to Christmas.

“Reaching our goal of €1 million today is a fantastic achievement for the Irish Red Cross and a true testament to the kindness and generosity of the Irish people, particularly in these difficult economic times and over the Christmas period,” he said.

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Red Cross volunteers and ambulances have been responding to calls day and night to help people stranded in their homes and businesses due to the rising water levels. Volunteers also distributed clean water and blankets.

The Irish Red Cross is now accepting applications for financial assistance from the relief fund.

Alison Healy

Alison Healy

Alison Healy is a contributor to The Irish Times