Gardaí from Portlaoise and Abbeyleix Garda stations will be selling donuts at Laois Shopping Centre on Sunday, November 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as part of a fundraiser for Special Olympics Leinster. The event, called Cops and Donuts, aims to raise over €4,000, with all proceeds benefiting local athletes.
Sergeant Paul Howard, who has organized the event for the past two years, said the goal is to sell more than 2,000 donuts this year. “We’ve sold around 2,000 donuts in previous years, and we hope to match that this time,” Howard said.
The donuts, priced at €2 for two or €5 for a box of six, will be delivered fresh from Kelly’s Family Bakery in Wexford Town on the morning of the event.
“We raised nearly €4,000 in Portlaoise alone last year, which was fantastic,” Howard added. “We’re excited to continue supporting the Special Olympics through this event.”
The Cops and Donuts event is part of An Garda Síochána’s involvement in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, which helps fund the organization’s programs across Ireland.
Inspector Joe Culliton, who attended the event launch on November 9, expressed his support. “It’s always a pleasure to be part of the Cops and Donuts fundraiser,” said Culliton. “It’s a great way for us to raise money for an important cause while connecting with the local community.”
Sergeant Howard echoed those sentiments, thanking Laois Shopping Centre for hosting the event for the third consecutive year. “The support we’ve received from the community and local businesses has been incredible,” he said. “We hope to raise as much money as possible for our Special Olympics athletes.”
Karen Treacy, Fundraising Manager for Special Olympics Ireland, praised the event as a “fun and tasty” way to raise funds. “We’re extremely grateful to An Garda Síochána for their continued support, and to all the sponsors who have made this possible,” she said. “The generosity of local businesses like Grape and Bean and Sliding Wardrobes Direct has been key to making this fundraiser a success.”
In addition to organizing Cops and Donuts, Sergeant Howard will also represent An Garda Síochána at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Winter Games. He is one of 106 law enforcement officers worldwide chosen to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Sgt. Howard has been a dedicated supporter of the Special Olympics for many years, having participated in multiple torch runs and medal presentations during his time in Limerick.
For those interested in supporting the cause, the Cops and Donuts fundraiser will take place at Laois Shopping Centre on Sunday, November 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by to enjoy some delicious donuts and contribute to a great cause!
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