The Restaurants Association of Ireland is delighted to announce that €10,200 was raised at the eighth annual Irish Restaurant Awards held on Monday 16th May in the DoubleTree by Hilton, Dublin. The money, which was raised through guest donations, was divided between the Irish Restaurant Awards 2016 official charity partner The Simon Community and The Restaurants Association of Ireland Benevolent Fund.

Each year, the Irish Restaurant Awards endeavors to raise funds for a charitable cause by holding a fundraiser on the night of the Awards final. Over 40 prizes for this year’s raffle fundraiser were donated by Restaurants, Hotels and Cafes who offered anything from a hamper and wine to luxurious hotel breaks.

The Simon Community across the country provide support and services to over 7,500 individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness every year. Together, with people who are homeless, Simon tackles the root causes, promotes innovative responses and urges the government to fulfil their commitments.

The Simon Community were presented with their cheque donation at The Restaurants Association of Ireland’s AGM and conference which took place on Thursday 2nd June in The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin 2. Niamh Randall, National Spokesperson for the Simon Communities stated, “I’d like to sincerely thank Restaurants Association who have chosen the Simon Community as their official charity partner for the Irish Restaurant Awards. All funds raised are much needed to support our work addressing the homeless and housing crisis.”

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.

Chief Executive of the Restaurants Association, Adrian Cummins commented, “We are delighted to that announce that over €10,000 was raised for The Simon Community and The RAI Benevolent fund. It is fantastic that we can bring more good news from the Awards and a night of industry celebration. I would like to thank our guests for their kindness and I have no doubt that their donations will make a difference.”