Down Syndrome Centre North East celebrates new chapter

The Down Syndrome Centre North East, which serves Louth, Monaghan, Cavan and Meath, says it is delighted to announce an exciting new chapter in its journey, having unveiled its new name, Hub 21, at a special Midterm Family Fun Event held on Wednesday 29 October at the Íontas Theatre, Castleblayney.

Founded and led by parents in 2017, the charity has grown from a small group of parents with an ambitious local idea into a thriving, independent organisation supporting almost 140 families across Monaghan, Louth, Cavan, and Meath — with its reach extending to Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, and Longford.

“Our new name reflects who we are and what we’ve become,” said Martin McBreen, Chairperson of Hub 21. “A hub is a place of connection, support, and belonging — just like our centre. And 21 represents the extra copy of chromosome 21 that makes people with Down syndrome unique. Together, Hub 21 captures our vision to grow, thrive, and shine.”

While the name has changed, the heart of the organisation remains the same. “We continue to operate under our own charity number, offering the same services and supports our families know and trust,” added Caitríona Crosby, Hub 21 Manager.

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“Hub 21 is about celebrating our growth and proudly stepping forward as an independent charity that represents the incredible community we serve.”

_{Below: Deirdre and Sadhbh at the launch at Íontas}

The Midterm Family Fun Event brought families together for an afternoon of friendship, laughter, and celebration — featuring:

• Parent & Child Sensory Play with You2Me Tuition team
• Dance Class with Chantelle from Dance Mania Dance Studio (Kells)
• Magic Show with Simon Ryan, The Magician
• Ukelele Jam with Carrickmacross Ukelele Group

Children who attend Hub 21, along with their siblings, enjoyed a fun-filled day of workshops, lunch, and activities, while parents relaxed over refreshments and caught up with other families.

_{Below: Caroline and her daughter Olivia at the launch}

The event also marked the launch of Hub 21’s 2026 Calendar, now available from their base in Carrickmacross (and online via their website shortly) and at Christmas markets and fairs across the region. Retailing at just €5, the calendar makes a perfect gift — and every purchase helps to fund early intervention classes and social groups for children with Down syndrome.

Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors and businesses, proceeds from the calendar enable at least 50 children to receive regular, heavily subsidised therapies and group sessions in Hub 21’s supportive “home from home” environment.

A special thank-you goes to Activ8, also based in Carrickmacross, for once again coming on board as main calendar sponsor — a partnership that continues to strengthen year after year.

Children were also treated to goody bags proudly featuring the new Hub 21 logo, delicious cupcakes supplied by Yummy Little Bakes and a stunning balloon display by Balloons by Siobhán, which doubled as the perfect photo backdrop for families. Grateful thanks also go to the staff and facilitators at the Íontas Theatre, who provided a warm and welcoming family-centred venue for the event.

“We’re so proud of how far we’ve come — from a small group of parents with an ambitious idea to a strong, independent charity,” said Martin McBreen, Chairperson. “This event was not only a celebration of our families but also of our future as Hub 21.”

For more information, visit www.dscnortheast.ie (new website www.hub21.ie coming soon), or contact info@hub21.ie / 042 942 3181. You can also find Hub 21.ie on social media.