By Michelle Crean

Families in need in the Killarney area will be supported again this festive season thanks to kind-hearted volunteers who have launched their annual Christmas fundraiser.

Killarney Lions Club Christmas Food Appeal, which has been running locally for over 40 years, began on Wednesday and will run until December 18. And the volunteers are once again hoping for the public's support as they prepare hampers to deliver in the town and surrounds over the coming weeks.

“It’s been another very tough year for many people because of the pandemic so our Christmas Food Appeal is more important than ever,” Killarney Lions Club President, John Fuller, said. “Even with the restrictions last year’s appeal was very successful thanks to the generosity of the people of Killarney, so we are hoping everyone can support again this year.”

Through its members Killarney Lions Club assists various groups and individuals in and around the community. Lions do this through voluntary activities, fundraising and by holding various types of events in support of a great many local causes.

Last year, for the first time in four decades, the group had to make a major change by going online due to the pandemic.

Yesterday (Thursday), local students in St Brendan's College gave their support by taking part in a No Uniform Day. And it's hoped that the annual street collection will resume later this month to help offset the cost of food for the hampers.

"If the restrictions allow it, we do have a street collection planned for December 17," he added.