Waterford's most successful GoFundMe campaigns of 2024
Sara and Emma Abu Selmia, who raised over €60,000 for family members who were displaced from Gaza this year.
Waterford has been recognised as one of Ireland’s most generous counties on GoFundMe for 2024, contributing significantly to the nearly €50 million raised nationwide.
Ireland has retained its title as the most generous country in the world for the sixth consecutive year.
Waterford’s fundraising campaigns made a profound impact, supporting everything from critical medical treatments and memorial funds, to helping families rebuild their lives after significant challenges.
Notable fundraisers in Waterford this year included the ‘Help Bring Maurice McCarthy Home’ campaign, which raised €101,080 in support of the McCarthy family shortly after the passing of Maurice unexpectedly in New Zealand.
€34,977 was raised this year in support of Patrick and Maria Walsh, whose home in Kilmacow was left in ruin following a devastating fire.
Meanwhile, the incredible work of Palestinian-Irish sisters who are living in Waterford, Sara and Emma Abu Selmia, raised €61,631 for their family members living in Gaza.
The sisters walked and ran 320 kilometres during the campaign, representing the 40 kilometres each of their eight aunts, uncles and their families had to travel by foot when they were displaced from their homes in Northern Gaza to Rafa.
Also this year, €37,122 was crowdfunded to support Shane O’Loughlin, a young father facing a double lung transplant. The money raised helped Shane and his family navigate this challenging time both physically and mentally.
A fundraiser in support of Michael Grant, who tragically passed away from cardiac arrest while on holiday with his family and friends, raised €73,185 in July.
Across Ireland, 15,000 fundraisers were launched this year, with over 850,000 donations made, making it the platform’s most active country globally.
Speaking on Ireland’s generosity, GoFundMe CEO Tim Cadogan said: "The Irish people’s incredible kindness and willingness to help others, even during challenging times, continues to inspire. Whether donating €5 or €500, every act of generosity creates a ripple effect of hope and change. This year’s inspiring fundraisers are a testament to the Irish spirit, resilient, compassionate, and unwavering in its support of those in need."
