RTÉ Toy Show Appeal Reaches Historic €30 Million Milestone as Irish Solidarity Shines

The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal has achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing €30 million in total donations since its inception in 2020. This extraordinary achievement follows Friday night's Late Late Toy Show, which generated an additional €4.6 million in contributions from viewers across Ireland and the diaspora worldwide.

This grassroots movement of solidarity exemplifies the values of our modern social democratic society, demonstrating how collective action can address social inequalities and support the most vulnerable in our communities. The appeal now provides vital support to over one million children and family members annually, funding essential projects that deliver practical assistance, care, and opportunities for young people throughout the thirty-two counties.

A Legacy Born from Courage

The initiative was inspired by the remarkable story of Saoirse Ruane, whose courage and warmth during her Toy Show appearance in 2020 touched hearts across the nation. Her story became a catalyst for this unprecedented wave of community solidarity, proving that when Irish people unite for a common cause, extraordinary things happen.

Since its launch, hundreds of local and national charities in every county have benefited from this redistributive initiative, embodying the principles of social justice and collective responsibility that define our progressive society.

Supporting Our Most Vulnerable

This year's donations will be distributed through Community Foundation Ireland across three critical areas: essential needs for the most vulnerable children, health and wellbeing supports including therapy and trauma services, and creativity and play initiatives that nurture young minds and spirits.

Host Patrick Kielty expressed profound gratitude to the viewing public: "We cannot thank you enough for your amazing donations to this year's RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. As we all saw on Friday night, at the heart of the Toy Show is kindness, from our children in the studio and from you watching at home. The difference your donations will make to kids and their families at this time of year is huge."

Public Service Broadcasting at Its Best

RTÉ Director-General Kevin Bakhurst emphasized the appeal's central role in the broadcaster's public service mission: "The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal remains one of the most important and impactful things that we do in RTÉ. To have raised in excess of €30 million since it began in 2020 is an incredible milestone."

This achievement demonstrates the power of public broadcasting to mobilize communities for social good, reflecting the kind of civic engagement essential to a thriving democracy.

Turning Generosity into Action

Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland, outlined the foundation's commitment to transforming donations into tangible support: "Food, shelter and warmth will be provided, safe spaces created and calls for help answered as a direct result of the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. Colour, energy and joy will also be brought into so many young lives."

The majority of this year's €4.6 million came through modern digital platforms, with over €3.5 million donated via Revolut, ensuring every cent reaches Community Foundation Ireland for distribution to children's charities.

Donations remain open until 19 December 2025, offering continued opportunities for Irish people at home and abroad to contribute to this vital cause that embodies our shared values of solidarity, equality, and social justice.