Mayo brand Foxford named charity partner for Sunflower Children's Hospice
Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has announced a new partnership with Mayo brand Foxford and the Sunflower Children’s Hospice – the first children’s hospice to serve the western seaboard.
As a part of this partnership, Foxford has committed to donating 10% of all online sales from their children’s range (toys, books, baby blankets, etc) to the Sunflower Children’s Hospice for the next three years.
This includes favourite items such as their heirloom woven baby blankets and the ever-popular Jellycat toys.
Foxford ships children’s products worldwide, helping to share the message of Sunflower Children’s Hospice to a global audience.
The partnership was celebrated at a coffee morning hosted by Foxford in their Foxford Woollen Mill building adjacent to the River Moy. The event was attended by Martina Jennings, CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hopsice Foundation, and Audrey Duffy, corporate partnerships officer at Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.
Founded in 1892 by Mother Agnes, Foxford Woollen Mill was established as a means of improving people’s lives and supporting the community. As a company with community at its core, Foxford is delighted to partner with a charity that will make such a profound difference to the people of the west of Ireland.
Sunflower Children’s Hospice will provide essential care for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across eight counties. The eight-bed Sunflower Children’s Hospice will include family accommodation, hydrotherapy baths, play therapy and sensory rooms, garden access for each room and, most importantly, a team of multidisciplinary medical professionals on site. Construction is due to commence in late 2026.
Joe Queenen, managing director of Foxford, said: “We are very proud to support such an important initiative. Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has an excellent track record and has planned a state-of-the-art facility for Castlebar which will alleviate stress for families and provide the care required.
“Commendably, they have already raised over €7 million of their €12-14 million goal through incredible community support, and we are delighted that we can contribute towards this. We are very excited to see this being developed in our county this year.”
Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation CEO Martina Jennings added: “Foxford has been a cornerstone of the Mayo community for over 130 years, and we are truly grateful that they have chosen to support Sunflower Children’s Hospice for the next three years.
“Their generous commitment will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of children and families who rely on our care. We appreciate their partnership and their dedication to helping us continue our vital work.”
For over 30 years, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has been dedicated to providing palliative care services to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families in Mayo and Roscommon. The palliative care teams have supported more than 25,000 patients and their families to date. Both Mayo Hospice and Roscommon Hospice were developed and paid for by fundraised income (a combined €15.3 million) and are a result of the great support received from the people of Mayo and Roscommon. To make a donation, see www.hospice.ie.