The local collection for Cork Penny Dinners is continuing. The work of the charity was highlighted on the RTE current affairs radio programme Morning Ireland this week and also on an RTE television programme featuring Philip Boucher Hayes.

The collection in Castletownroche, Ballyhooly, Glanworth and Kildorrery is being organised again this year by John Ryan and Emer Buckley, who have drop-off facilities in local supermarkets in Ballyhooly, Castletownroche, Glanworth and Kildorrery and are appealing for all support to help the less well off this Christmas.

“People have been very generous so far,” Emer Buckley told The Avondhu this week. She pointed out that, if everyone gave even one small item apiece, it’d make a huge contribution.

She extended sincere thanks to Shane Ryan of food company Blenders in Newmarket who made a very substantial donation of foodstuffs this week. “It was exceptionally generous,” she said.

The service is struggling to to cope with increased demand due to the continued economic downturn. Penny Dinners is one of Cork’s oldest charitable organisations, dating back to the 1840s. Their aim is to give everyone who calls to their centre a hot nourishing midday meal. People in need are also given sandwiches and fruit to take away as an evening meal. There’s an open door policy and the welcome is warm. They’re open seven days a week all year round, including Christmas Day.