Child Abuse Charity CARI’s makes Louth Christmas appeal

As Ireland marks the European Day for the Protection of Children, national child protection charity CARI has launched its Season of Care Appeal.

The campaign urges the people of Louth to “give the gift of care” this Christmas by supporting children affected by sexual abuse.

CARI (Children at Risk in Ireland) provides free, specialist therapy and support to children and families nationwide.

In 2024 alone, families in Louth were among those who received 1,468 therapy, support and assessment sessions through CARI’s services across 15 counties.

“Today reminds us that protecting children means believing them and ensuring they receive the care they need to move forward,” says Emer O’Neill, CARI’s Chief Executive Clinical Officer.

“Our work restores safety, trust and hope. A simple act of kindness can help a child begin to feel safe again.”

For many children, Christmas is not joyful. Painful memories can resurface. CARI’s appeal highlights the power of care and therapy.

“CARI pieced us back together,” says the sister of one child helped by the charity. “They made us feel safe again.”

CARI has supported children and families across Ireland for over 30 years, through centres in Limerick and Dublin and a national Carer Support Service. In more recent years, their service has expanded to the Barnahus centre in Galway, which offers integrated care to children and families affected by child sexual abuse.

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Emer says demand for their services has risen sharply in recent years, and funding remains a significant challenge. “Public donations are crucial to keeping therapy free and accessible,” she adds.

The Season of Care Appeal runs through Christmas across TV, radio, social media and community channels.

CARI is asking people to donate or host local fundraisers to ensure no child is left waiting for care.Donations and details: www.cari.ie/seasonofcare