Sunday afternoon last marked a joyful and heartwarming occasion at The Cope Foodstore Dungloe’s Annual Food Fair, as the much-anticipated Donegal Down Syndrome 2025 Calendars were officially launched.
The event featured a delightful tea party and brought together members of Donegal Down Syndrome, some of the wonderful calendar models, and their families.
The atmosphere was filled with cheer, thanks to a surprise visit from Santa Claus himself. Santa delighted attendees with gift bags, handshakes, and warm hugs, spreading festive spirit to children and adults alike. The day’s events were thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.
Debbie Walker, who, along with her sister, AnneMarie, conceptualised the 2025 calendar, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved.
Speaking at the event, she highlighted the calendar’s mission to celebrate the joy and beauty of being a family with an extra chromosome.
“This initiative is about raising awareness and supporting families across Donegal,” Debbie said, adding that all proceeds from the calendar sales will go directly to Donegal Down Syndrome. She extended thanks to all the local businesses stocking the calendars, the models and families selling them in their local shops, and the invaluable support received from everyone throughout the process.”
The 2025 calendar has already been a resounding success, with the initial batch selling out quickly and a reprint currently moving at an impressive pace.
Debbie shared her hope that the calendar will continue to increase awareness of Down Syndrome and celebrate individuals with unique gifts and talents.
Mark Sharkey, Chief Executive of The Cope, expressed his pride in supporting the initiative. “It has been a privilege to be a part of this meaningful project. The Cope team has enthusiastically supported the calendar’s distribution, both in our stores and through connections with local businesses,” he said.
Declan Dorrian, Manager of The Cope Foodstore Dungloe, welcomed attendees to the Food Fair and applauded the incredible community support for the calendar. “It’s wonderful to see such a fantastic turnout and the enthusiasm for the calendar,” he said, adding that the event was a true celebration of community spirit.
Also in attendance was Kathleen McGonagle, who is raising funds for Donegal Down Syndrome through the Dungloe GAA Quid Games. Kathleen remarked on the event’s success in boosting awareness for Donegal Down Syndrome. “This has been a fantastic event for our families, and we hope to build on this momentum for the future,” she said.
The Cope Foodstore Dungloe’s Annual Food Fair, coupled with the launch of the Donegal Down Syndrome 2025 Calendar, is testament to the strength and unity of the local community. As the calendars continue to sell quickly, the initiative underscores the shared commitment to supporting families and celebrating the unique contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome.
For more information on where to purchase the Donegal Down Syndrome 2025 Calendar, please visit the Donegal Down Syndrome website and Facebook page or check out local participating stores.
