An online fundraiser for the families of two teenagers who died in the Lough Swilly tragedy has now raised over four times its original goal.
More than €41,400 has been raised for the heartbroken families of Emmanuel Familola (16) and Matt Sibanda (18), who both lost their lives after getting into difficulty after going into the water to retrieve a football at the beach in Buncrana on Saturday, 10th May.
The teenagers were both living with their families in separate international protection centres.
Local charity Insight Inishowen, which launched a GoFundMe on behalf of The Exchange Community Centre following the tragedy, announced at the weekend that they were raising the target in light of the “incredible kindness” from donors.
The initial goal of €10,000 was quadrupled, and the subsequent target of €40,000 has also been reached.
“Every donation, message, and share has reminded the families they’re not alone in this heartbreak,” a statement from the charity said.
“Because the need remains great, and support is still pouring in, we’re increasing our goal to continue helping the families through the long road ahead. These funds will ease ongoing costs and give them one less thing to worry about as they grieve and begin to heal.”
Emmanuel Familola, a native of Nigeria, was laid to rest in Cockhill cemetery on Saturday following his funeral Mass at St Mary’s Church, Buncrana.
The funeral heard words of thanks from family friend Tony Joel, who said the African Community in Ireland wanted to thank the communities of Buncrana, Donegal and Ireland for their “unity and love” following Emmanuel’s tragic passing and asked God “to bless this community and country.”
Funeral details are yet to be announced for Matt Sibanda, a pupil of Crana College and a native of Zimbabwe.
To view or support the GoFundMe page, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lough-swilly-tragedy
