A special event for IMPACT members and their families has marked the start of the Christmas season and raised donations for the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP). The event, organised by the union’s Cork branch, took place at Rumley’s pen farm at the end of November.

The celebration, now in its third year, was established to thank members who support the work of the union throughout the year. This year the branch allocated 150 family passes through a lottery system. The event provides a welcome opportunity for members to meet socially and catch up with their union colleagues from across the county.

The Cork branch partnered with SVP, and members who attended gave generous donations including baby and personal care products, toys, clothes, food, and cash for the charity’s fuel fund, which will help ensure that families keep warm this winter.

Rumley’s open farm provided a truly enchanting setting for the annual member event. The children met Mrs Claus as she was preparing Santa for a magical ride on Christmas Eve, and wrote their letters to Santa. They also met the main man himself, and he had presents for them all.

The event catered to more than 600 adults and children, and was made possible with the vital assistance of workplace reps from the branch, who gave up their Saturday to act as stewards and ‘elves’. Their hard work ensured the day ran smoothly and successfully, and we owe them a special debt of gratitude for their efforts.