Local notes: Popular cafe celebrates anniversary with warm-hearted charity fundraiser
Tom Brophy, Eilish Griffin, Mary McNicholas and Mick Griffin at the presentation of a donation cheque by Eilish and Mick, of The Folk Café, to Victims Assitance Charity, whose national headquarters is based in the town. Eilish and Mick generously donated their takings for one day to celebrate their two years in business, in the town. Image: John Corless.
Kiltimagh’s Folk Café has blossomed into a vibrant community hub since its opening two years ago. With its rich musical atmosphere and commitment to fostering connections among locals, the café stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and creativity.
Last week, to celebrate two years in business, the café donated all of its Friday takings to Victims Assistance charity.
The café's founders, Mick and Eilish Griffin, presented a cheque to Tom Brophy and Mary McNicholas of Victims Assistance, in the café.
Tom thanked the owners on behalf of the charity, and said that the donation would make a real difference to their ability to deliver services, and it helped raise awareness of Victim Assistance.
Initially starting with small music sessions on Friday mornings, the café quickly became a gathering place for musicians and music lovers alike.
What sets the Folk Café apart is its dedication not just to music, but also to human connection.
“We emphasize talking to customers rather than focusing solely on food and drink,” Mick said. “It’s more like a community café where people can come, relax, and chat.”
Every first Wednesday of the month, the café opens its doors for an open mic night, encouraging both seasoned performers and newcomers to showcase their talents.
As the café continues to grow, the owners are eager to cultivate an even deeper cultural vibe.
The Federation of Victims Assistance is making a significant impact in the lives of those affected by crime.
Established in 2005, this charity, whose national headquarters is based in Kiltimagh, is dedicated to supporting victims and individuals in vulnerable situations, ensuring they can reclaim their lives after experiencing trauma.
The organisation is a voluntary, non-profit charity, comprising of fully trained volunteers offering emotional and practical assistance to all victims of crime and those that have experienced a traumatic incident. The service is also available to family members of victims.
Chairperson, Tommy Brophy, told the Western People ‘We aim to help victims regain their sense of well-being and return to who they were before the crime’.
Victims Assistance provides a wide range of support, catering for victims of various forms of victimisation, including domestic violence, coercive control, elder abuse, burglary, assault, sexual assault (including historical abuse), scams, racism, bullying and financial scams.
The office in Kiltimagh has also been nominated by An Garda Síochána as a centre where people who are victims of a hate crime, who, for any reason, feel intimidated by going to a Garda station, can come to make a report of the crime to them. They then forward the complaint directly to the Garda National Diversity Unit who will deal with the matter further.
Victims Assistance aims to connect with individuals within 24 hours.
‘We act quickly to reassure victims, and we help them in whatever way we can. Sometimes it might just be to guide them to the appropriate resources,’ said Tommy.
Despite the essential services they provide, funding remains a challenge. Victims Assistance relies heavily on donations and fundraising events. ‘We would welcome any corporate or private donations which will enable us to continue our service into 2025. Every contribution helps us continue our vital work,’ said Tommy.
Mary McNicholas is the co-ordinator and office administrator. Mary responds to emergency calls as well as managing the day to day affairs of the federation. Along with Tom Brophy, Geraldine Kennedy, Sligo (retired from AIB) is treasurer, and Mary O'Malley is secretary. Adina Stefan, from Dublin, is Youth Liaison Officer.
They can be contacted directly and in confidence at any time, on Freephone 1800 277 477 or during working hours at 094 900 0251, by email at support@victimassistance.ie or text number, (used mainly by deaf people to communicate with Victim Assistance) is 083 123 1028.
Donations are always welcome at Victims Assistance and, because they are a registered charity, they are subject to the strict code of conduct imposed by the Charities Regulator, and are subject to audit from that body.
