Black Santa appeal returns to Carlow for third year to support Autism Heroes
The Black Santa appeal launches in Carlow this Friday 5 December
LOCAL clergy and parishioners of all denominations will come together for the third consecutive year to participate in the Black Santa Appeal in Carlow, with this year’s beneficiary being Autism Heroes Carlow.
The appeal will take place on Thursday 11 December and Friday 12 December 2025, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm each day at Fairgreen Shopping Centre.
The Black Santa tradition, explains Rev Paul Fitzpatrick, dates back over 45 years to when the then Dean of Belfast, the Very Rev’d Sammy Crooks, held a sit-out for charity outside his Cathedral. To keep out the cold, he wore an Anglican black cloak, and the local newspaper nicknamed him ‘The Black Santa’ because of his distinctive attire. The concept has since been embraced collaboratively and inclusively in many locations around the country.
The Carlow appeal is supported by An Garda Síochána Carlow.
A launch event will take place this Friday, 5 December 2025 at 12 noon at Community House, Haymarket. Among those expected to attend are members of Autism Heroes Carlow with Mr Paul Doogue, Mayor of Carlow, An Garda Síochána Carlow, and representatives from local parishes and denominations.
Collection buckets, tables, and swipe and pay facilities will be provided by Autism Heroes Carlow, while the PA system for the two days is being provided by Rory Healy of Healy Funeral Directors, Pollerton Castle.
