Hub 21, formerly the Down Syndrome Centre North East, is one of more than 170 organisations across Ireland to receive funding in the latest round of RTÉ Toy Show Grants.
The organisation has been awarded €16,000 through the initiative, administered by Community Foundation Ireland, to support its Early Intervention Programme for children with Down syndrome aged from birth to six years across Louth, Meath, Cavan, and Monaghan. The programme provides essential developmental support, helping children build communication, motor, social, and school readiness skills during the crucial early years of their development.
Children with Down syndrome often experience significant delays in speech, mobility, and social interaction, yet many families face long waiting lists for public services or cannot afford private therapy. Our programme bridges this gap by providing timely,
high-quality therapeutic support in a local, community-based setting.
The programme follows a holistic, play-based approach tailored to each child’s individual needs. Following professional assessment, children receive targeted therapy sessions and small group Early Intervention classes that promote developmental progress while building confidence and social skills.
By improving early developmental outcomes, reducing financial strain on families, and supporting school readiness, the programme helps ensure that children with Down syndrome have the best possible start in life and the opportunity to reach their
full potential.
Denise Marron (Services Coordinator at Hub 21) in welcoming the grant said:
Thanks to the generosity of the public, we can continue providing vital Early Intervention supports that help young children with Down syndrome develop communication, social, and developmental skills during the most important years of their lives. We see every day the difference that early support can make, not only for
children but for their entire families.
We would like to thank Community Foundation Ireland and everyone who contributed to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal 2025 for believing in our work and helping us ensure that children across our region can grow, thrive, and shine.”
Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland added:
“Being entrusted to turn the €4.3 Million provided by generous RTÉ viewers into actions which deliver benefits for children across Ireland is both a huge honour and responsibility. The Foundation utilizes insights and knowledge from community partners nationwide, best-in-class research, and the expertise of top child advocates to inform its decisions. The result is another year when children in every part of our country will benefit.
On behalf of the Community Foundation, I want to congratulate everyone who will benefit from the latest grants. We look forward to being updated on your work ahead as we all seek to improve the lives of children and their families. To the viewers who have made all of this possible, Thank You.”
