“Christians are called to make the connection between faith and earth, between theology and ecology, constructing common cause with those who challenge confinement and usher in freedom. This is where we will find Jesus Christ today” – Archbishop Michael Jackson.

Rector and parish administrator of St Joseph’s in Dundalk, Fr Noel Kehoe CSsR, described the new initiative as “an exciting new tool in our mission to preach plentiful redemption.”

"Last year alone more than 50,000 gifts were distributed to families in need locally," said Major Paul Kingscott, the Salvation Army’s divisional leader.

“The effects of poverty don’t stop just because it’s Christmas – they endure throughout the year.” 

“Each of us has an option, to respect the dignity of all in our society through our actions or to choose to ignore this suffering.”

This is a particularly difficult time for families worrying about upcoming Christmas expenses and getting through the winter months when energy bills are at their highest.

“Sadly for unmarried mothers, adoption was considered to be in the best interests of the mother and child”.

€41,400, the largest amount in the Dublin appeal’s 15 year history, collected in the days running up to Christmas.

The battle against poverty is one we can win if we do it as a united community: Peter Robinson.