By Michelle Crean

COVID didn't "hamper" their efforts this year as members of the Killarney Soroptimist Club came together and gave generously to charity.

Members of the group couldn't hold normal meetings this year due to the ongoing restrictions but pulled together to continue supporting a women's aid countywide service.

Along with family and friends they created Christmas hampers for the third year running and donated them to the ADAPT Centre in Tralee on Tuesday.

There, they presented them to Catherine Casey, who is the Manager of ADAPT Women's Refuge Centre.

“It is wonderful to be in a position to donate these Christmas hampers to ADAPT once again this year," Killarney Soroptimist Club President, Teresa Irwin, said.

"Due to COVID and not being able to hold normal club meetings we were unsure what we could manage. We are thrilled with the response since we decided to go ahead and amazed at the generosity and the number of hampers. We wish to thank all those that donated. Hopefully the residents of ADAPT will enjoy them.”

Catherine said that they were once again very grateful to all the members of the Killarney Soroptimist Club.

"We recognise that there is a lot of organising and work done by the Club President Teresa Irwin and all the members in collecting and putting the hampers together. It is heartwarming to see the support and generosity of the club. ADAPT Kerry and the Killarney Soroptimists have built a very good relationship over the last number of years and they have lead many campaigns to highlight our service in the Killarney area, including taking part in the ‘Safe Homes, Safe Communities’ initiatives. There is no doubt that their work raises awareness of our service and has contributed to many more women making contact with us for support by phone, through our outreach service and availing of refuge."

If you would like to talk to ADAPT Kerry please ring 066 7129100 anytime.