Major €100,000 fundraising boost for Children’s Hospice in Mayo
The Sunflower Children’s Hospice became Cola-Cola Ballina’s primary fundraising focus for 2026.
Employees at Coca-Cola Ballina have raised €100,000 for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice project.
The Sunflower Children’s Hospice became Cola-Cola Ballina’s primary fundraising focus for 2026 after warehouse team member Shane Donohoe was inspired by the hospice’s story and the profound difference the facility will make for children and families in communities across the region and beyond.
Inspired by the hospice’s mission, employees across the Ballina site joined forces with suppliers, families, friends, and members of the wider community to raise funds and awareness throughout the year.
The team participated in various activities, including employee raffles, online fundraising, supplier-sponsored prizes, and community-led events, such as a basketball camp organised by warehouse employee Derek Bal Cunningham through the Ballina Braves Basketball Club.
Employees also volunteered their time and skills to help organise the events, while local musicians, entertainers, and sports organisations contributed prizes and support throughout the campaign.
Shane Donohoe, Warehouse Team Member at Coca-Cola Ballina, said, when he first heard about the Sunflower Children’s Hospice and the difference it would make for children and their families, he knew it was a cause we could really get behind.
“What started as an idea quickly became a huge team effort, and the support from colleagues, suppliers, families, friends, and the wider community has been incredible. To see everyone come together and raise €100,000 is something we can all be extremely proud of. Most importantly, we know these funds will contribute to a facility that will make a real difference to families when they need it most.”
On June 27, a major event at Ballina Golf Club was held to celebrate the year-long fundraising activity, with a golf outing, raffles, and an evening of entertainment.
The €100,000 raised will support the development of the hospice and help bring specialist children’s palliative care closer to families in the West of Ireland.
Once completed, the Sunflower Children’s Hospice in Mayo will be the only dedicated children’s hospice facility outside Dublin, providing greater access to specialist care and helping to reduce the long and often challenging journeys many families currently face.