Community generosity delivers comfort to families with over 400 pyjamas donated to Women’s Aid

CEO of Women’s Aid ABCLN, Gillian Creevey welcomes the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick and Director of Community Development, Ursula Fay to the Women’s Refuge to receive the pyjama appeal donations

More than 400 pairs of pyjamas have been donated to this year’s Women’s Aid Christmas Pyjama Appeal, bringing warmth, comfort and a sense of normality to children and families affected by domestic abuse across the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough.

The annual appeal, which has become a fixture in the local calendar, relies on the generosity of residents, community groups and organisations who come together each Christmas to support some of the most vulnerable families in the area.

Donations were collected at several locations, including Antrim Civic Centre, Mossley Mill, Antrim Castle Gardens Gift Shop, Ballyclare Comrades Ladies Football Club and Ballyclare Town Hall.

For many children spending Christmas in refuge accommodation or transitional housing, something as simple as a new pair of pyjamas can provide reassurance, dignity and comfort during an uncertain and often distressing time.

The appeal aims to ensure that no child goes without this small but meaningful reminder of care and kindness over the festive period.

This year marked the sixth consecutive year that Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick has championed the initiative. Now serving as Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, she joined Women’s Aid ABCLN Chief Executive Gillian Creevey to personally deliver the donated pyjamas to the charity.

Mayor, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick champions the Women’s Aid Christmas Pyjama Appeal for a 6th year

Paying tribute to the community response, the Mayor said:

“Thank you to everyone who donated. Your kindness brings dignity, comfort, and will help make bedtime a little brighter this Christmas.”

Women’s Aid ABCLN works across Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey, providing vital support services for women, children and young people impacted by domestic abuse.

The Christmas Pyjama Appeal not only meets a practical need, but also highlights the continued importance of community awareness and solidarity during the festive season.

Anyone affected by domestic abuse, or who is concerned about someone else, can access confidential support through Women’s Aid ABCLN on 028 2563 2136.