Representatives from the Coca-Cola Ballina fundraising committee with Martina Jennings, CEO Mayo Roscommon Hospice, at the cheque presentation for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice. Pictured left to right: José Yglesias, Shane Donohoe, Graham Miley, Martina Jennings, Philip Rossiter, Morgan Henry, and Anthony Griffin.
A huge fundraising effort by the team at Coca-Cola Ballina has raised an incredible €100,000 for Sunflower Children’s Hospice.
The campaign saw employees across the Ballina site come together with suppliers, families, friends and the wider community to raise vital funds towards the development of Sunflower Children’s Hospice in Mayo.
Sunflower Children’s Hospice became Coca-Cola Ballina’s chosen charity for 2026 after warehouse team member Shane Donohoe learned more about the hospice project and the difference it will make for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
What began as an idea quickly grew into a major fundraising campaign, with employees getting behind a packed programme of activities throughout the year. From employee raffles and online fundraising to supplier-sponsored prizes and community events, there was an incredible response from people both within Coca-Cola Ballina and across the local community.
Among the fundraising highlights was a basketball camp organised by warehouse employee Derek Bal Cunningham through Ballina Braves Basketball Club. Local musicians, entertainers and sports organisations also generously contributed their time, prizes and support, while employees gave up their own time to help organise and run events.
Shane Donohoe, Warehouse Team Member at Coca-Cola Ballina, said:
“When I first heard about the Sunflower Children’s Hospice and the difference it will make for children and their families, I knew it was a cause we could really get behind. What started as an idea quickly became a huge team effort, and the support from colleagues, suppliers, families, friends and the wider community has been incredible.
“To see everyone come together and raise €100,000 is something we can all be extremely proud of. Most importantly, we know these funds will contribute to a facility that will make a real difference to families when they need it most.”
The campaign reached its €100,000 fundraising target following a fantastic day of fundraising at Ballina Golf Club on June 27th, which included a golf outing, raffles and an evening of entertainment.
The achievement is a testament to the commitment and generosity of everyone involved, with the Coca-Cola Ballina team going above and beyond to support Sunflower Children’s Hospice.
The €100,000 raised will help support the development of the hospice and its vision to provide specialist children’s palliative care closer to families across the west of Ireland.
Sunflower Children’s Hospice would like to sincerely thank everyone at Coca-Cola Ballina, their suppliers, families, friends and the wider community for their incredible support and generosity.
