A Cork-based charity supporting families living with neuro-physical disabilities has received a transformational €140,000 grant from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, set to benefit more than 250 children across Munster over the next two years.

The Crann Centre, located in Ovens, announced it will use the funding to expand its Social Capital Programme, which provides fully inclusive activities ranging from summer camps and youth clubs to conservation workshops and accessible theatre. The grant comes through the appeal’s partners Community Foundation Ireland.

The charity has seen remarkable growth in recent years, now supporting over 700 families from Cork, Kerry and across Munster, with three new families seeking support each week. The centre provides lifelong solutions for children, adults and families living with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida and other neuro-physical disabilities through its unique ‘2 Generation’ Model of Care.

Demand for the Social Capital Programme has surged by 30% in each of the past two years. A recent evaluation found that 67% of participants reported significantly boosted social confidence, with increased independence, skills and friendship groups contributing to greater happiness and inclusion.

The programme’s success was showcased last Friday night when the Breaking Barriers youth theatre group delivered two performances of Aladdin at Cork City Hall, marking the culmination of months of weekly Saturday morning rehearsals from September to June.

Tara O’Donovan, Social Capital Lead:

“The Breaking Barriers youth group staged an unforgettable performance of Aladdin on Friday night, and it brought a tremendous amount of joy to the children themselves and to their families. It’s important that we continue to develop programmes like this, which offer unique experiences for children and help them to grow their confidence and abilities. We are extremely grateful to the Toy Show Appeal for including the Crann Centre this year. This funding will go a long way towards achieving our goals.”

The funding will support various activities including ecology workshops, visual arts, music sessions, Christmas celebrations, family barbecues and the continued development of the Breaking Barriers accessible theatre group.

For more information on the Crann Centre visit www.cranncentre.ie.