The Irish Restaurant Awards was not only a night of appreciation and celebration of the restaurant industry, but also a chance to raise funds for some great causes. A raffle was held on the night and guests were asked to donate whatever they could.

Their generosity was outstanding and the total figure raised was €7,698.00 which was shared equally between the Marie Keating Foundation and the RAI Benevolent Fund. We had a huge response from restaurants who kindly donated very generous prizes for the raffle, so a huge thank you to them as well.

The RAI Benevolent Fund was founded in March 1996 for the purpose of supporting people from the hospitality & catering industry who, through no fault of their own, have fallen on hard times.  The Benevolent Fund is made available to those currently or previously involved in the hospitality industry in Ireland.

The Marie Keating Foundation provides much needed help, including both financial and emotional support, to those affected by cancer. They receive no government funding and therefore rely solely on donations. They are a leading voice for cancer awareness in Ireland – “making cancer less frightening by enlightening”.

We are told that the money raised for the Marie Keating Foundation will provide grants for 6 families who are struggling financially. The grant will help pay bills for childcare, fuel, transportation and medication. Because of the charity raffle, we will be able to remove their financial worry so these families can focus on getting through their cancer journey.

So well done to everybody and a heart-felt thank you from the RAI and from the Marie Keating Foundation for your generosity.

Sincerely,

Awards Team