Pictures: Heartwarming Christmas celebration unites Roscrea and Ukrainian refugee communities

Ukrainian residents shared traditional carols with the Ukrainian children. Photos: PJ Wright

placeholder image — Ukrainian residents shared traditional carols with the Ukrainian children. Photos: PJ Wright

Roscrea's former Sacred Heart Convent is a accommodation centre for Ukrainian refugees

The Ukrainian Accommodation Centre in Roscrea hosted a truly heartwarming Christmas celebration which brought together residents and the local community in a spirit of gratitude and unity.

The evening marked the second Christmas for the centre’s 130 residents, most of whom are women and children, including 50 young people under the age of 17.

The festive evening began with a magical performance by the Roscrea Community Choir, whose renditions of classic Christmas carols filled the hall with warmth and joy.

Dzhemilev, Sofia, Kird and Lucy all dressed up for the event. Photo: PJ Wright

The atmosphere became even more touching as the centre's residents shared traditional Ukrainian carols, offering a beautiful glimpse into their homeland's rich culture.

Inna, Stas, Andmii and Marce are pictured enjoying the Christmas event in Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

The highlight of the musical segment was a heartfelt performance by the Ukrainian children, whose innocent voices brought smiles and tears to the audience. Their songs, filled with both joy and longing, captured the essence of the holiday season—a time for connection, reflection, and hope

Community Effort

The celebration welcomed a large turnout from the Roscrea community, including local business leaders, representatives from the NTDC, local schools, and the HSE.

Carmel Corley, Joan Sheedy, Nora Loughnane and Arlene Garnier enjoying the event in Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

These groups have played a vital role in supporting the residents since their arrival, and the event provided a meaningful opportunity for residents to personally express their gratitude.

The evening was further brightened by the arrival of Santa Claus, whose appearance brought excitement and wonder to the children.

Svitlana and Serhii Zemous pictured in Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

Santa distributed gifts, generously donated by the NTDC and the local community, ensuring that every child experienced the joy of Christmas.

The delighted laughter and radiant smiles of the children created a magical moment that will be cherished by all who witnessed it.

Yaroslava Sarvou, Julia Stadnik and Herime Kerimova pictured enjoying the event in Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

Shared Traditions

The event concluded with a vibrant spread of refreshments, featuring a harmonious mix of Ukrainian delicacies lovingly prepared by the residents and dishes catered by local providers.

Members of Roscrea Community Choir - Naomi and Michael Collis, Christine Gordon, Bernie Cummins and Siobhan Bowe. Photo: PJ Wright

Sean Finnegan, General Manager of the Ukrainian Accommodation Centre, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the event’s success and the community’s ongoing support:

"This evening was about more than just celebrating Christmas—it was about celebrating the kindness, resilience, and togetherness that have defined our journey here in Roscrea.

“The unwavering support from the local community has been a beacon of hope for our residents, and tonight’s event was a testament to the power of compassion and connection.

Pictured above performing at the event are the Roscrea Community Choir and Age Friendly Roscrea's Rosie Grays Choir. Photo: PJ Wright

“We are truly grateful to everyone who has played a part in making this holiday season so special for our residents," he said.

The Ukrainian Accommodation Centre is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment within Roscrea.

Residents and local people enjoying the opening of gifts from Santa. Photo: PJ Wright

This Christmas celebration highlighted the strength of community and the joy that comes from shared experiences.

As the centre looks forward to continued collaboration with local groups, this event stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with open hearts.