A Brew for a Cause: Holycross Abbey Pop-Up Café Raises Funds in aid of the Dillon Quirke Foundation
Recently the Dormitory at Holycross Abbey was transformed into a warm and welcoming Pop-Up Café, drawing in crowds from the local community and beyond for a truly meaningful cause, to support the Dillon Quirke Foundation, a charity dedicated to raising awareness and supporting research for sudden cardiac death in young people. The event was organised by the Holycross Jubilee Committee and sponsored by Holycross Ballycahill GAA.
The café featured an array of delicious treats, including home-baked goods, freshly brewed coffee, and light refreshments in a relaxed space which was transformed into a delightful Café for the day. From the early hours, the dormitory was a buzz with the sounds of clinking cups, laughter, shared stories about the much-loved Dillon Quirke, all under the shadow of the Abbey’s historic beauty.
The Café exceeded expectations both in turnout and in funds raised which on the day was five thousand euros. Special thanks to both Fr Celsus Tierney PP and Councillor Michéal Lowry whose efforts were instrumental in bringing the vision of the Pop-Up Café to life. Their commitment and dedication played a vital role in helping raise awareness of the Dillon Quirke Foundation event.
Special thanks is extended to Annmarie and Eóghan: the Recovery Hub Thurles for their incredible generosity and assistance. To Crossogue Preserves, Ballycahill Shop and The Gleeson Group for their support. To Kay and Catherine, the Ryan girls who organised the set-up of the Café, Seamus Crosse, Catherine Maher and the Abbey team who worked tirelessly to ensure that this event was a success and to our wonderful local bakers who filled the café with delicious homemade treats.
According to the Project Lead Claire Ryan O’Keeffe “The Pop-Up Café was a tremendous success. From the very beginning, this initiative was about more than just raising funds, it was about honouring Dillon’s legacy and supporting a cause that resonates deeply with so many. The response from the public was overwhelming. The generosity and enthusiasm shown by everyone who visited the café made it a truly special occasion. This event showed what can happen when a community unites behind a vision, and I am grateful to everyone who made it possible’’.
We are absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible support we received for this event. From the moment the doors opened, the community came together to support the Dillon Quirke Foundation. The event would not have been possible without the tireless work of our volunteers, the generosity of local bakers and sponsors, and everyone who turned up to support the cause. Your kindness and support did not go unnoticed we are deeply grateful.”
