€16,000 Toy Show grant to support children with Down syndrome across Louth
Hub 21 supports kids with Down syndrome across Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, and Meath
Hub 21 is one of over 170 organisations benefitting from the latest round of RTÉ Toy Show Grants which been made possible by the generosity of the annual television spectacle.
The announcement of grants has been made by Community Foundation Ireland which works to turn donations by viewers into actions on the ground which benefit children and their families.
Hub 21 is receiving support of €16,000 for our Early Intervention Programme which provides essential developmental support for children aged 0–6 with Down syndrome across Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, and Meath.
The programme delivers structured Early Intervention classes designed to support communication, motor skills, social development, and school readiness during the most critical early years of a child’s development.
Children with Down syndrome often experience significant delays in speech, mobility, and social interaction, yet many families face long waiting lists for public services or cannot afford private therapy. Our programme bridges this gap by providing timely, high-quality therapeutic support in a local, community-based setting.
The programme follows a holistic, play-based approach tailored to each child’s individual needs. Following professional assessment, children receive targeted therapy sessions and small group Early Intervention classes that promote developmental progress while building confidence and social skills.
By improving early developmental outcomes, reducing financial strain on families, and supporting school readiness, the programme helps ensure that children with Down syndrome have the best possible start in life and the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Denise Marron (Services Coordinator at Hub 21) in welcoming the grant said:
“Thanks to the generosity of the public, we can continue providing vital Early Intervention supports that help young children with Down syndrome develop communication, social and developmental skills during the most important years of their lives. We see every day the difference that early support can make, not only for children but for their entire families.
“We would like to thank Community Foundation Ireland and everyone who contributed to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal 2025 for believing in our work and helping us ensure that children across our region can grow, thrive and shine.”
Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland added:
“Being entrusted to turn the €4.3 Million provided by generous RTÉ viewers into actions which deliver benefits for children across Ireland is both a huge honour and responsibility. The Foundation uses insights and knowledge from community partners across the country, best in class research and the insights of top child advocates to inform our decisions. The result is another year when children in every part of our country will benefit.
“On behalf of the Community Foundation I want to congratulate everyone who will benefit from the latest grants. We look forward to being updated on your work ahead as we all seek to improve the lives of children and their families. To the viewers who have made all of this possible, Thank You.”