People across Waterford are being encouraged to get behind one of Ireland’s biggest annual fundraisers in support of hospice care.

Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice returns on Thursday, September 24th, with people being asked to host events in their homes, workplaces, community centres and sports clubs.

Broadcaster Laura Fox and former RTÉ news presenter Eileen Dunne are among those backing this year’s campaign, which has raised €48.8 million for hospice care since it began in 1992.

Barbara Murphy, Chairperson of Waterford Hospice Movement, is encouraging people across the county to take part.

‘Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice, one of our longest and most-loved fundraisers, is now in its 34th year raising funds for Hospice in-patient and community services around Ireland.

‘We are asking everyone to support hospices nationwide, by hosting a coffee morning or donating what you can at an event or online.

‘This support is invaluable and funds vital services and quality initiatives, greatly improving care for patients with life-limiting illness.’

Broadcasters Back Campaign

2FM’s Laura Fox said hosting or attending a coffee morning can make a significant difference to hospice services.

‘We are so lucky to have such caring Hospice staff right across Ireland,’ she said.

‘If people can host a coffee morning, attend a relative or friend’s event, or donate, it will make a huge difference to the incredible work they carry out every day, caring for patients.’

Former RTÉ news anchor Eileen Dunne, a board director at St Francis Hospice in Dublin, highlighted that money raised locally remains with local hospice services.

Last year’s campaign raised €2.1 million through more than 2,300 events, helping to support care for 20,000 patients and their families.

People can register to host a coffee morning on September 24, or on another date that suits them, through the Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice website.