Fundraiser launched to help repair Clubhouse in Clongorey, County Kildare following vandalism incidents

A fundraiser has been set up to help repair the Clubhouse in Clongorey after it was struck by two separate acts of vandalism.

The fundraiser is currently on GoFundMe and has a donation goal of €15,000.

Explaining the situation, organiser Niamh Battault said in the fundraiser's description: "Recently, the community of Clongorey was hit with two senseless acts of vandalism when both the old and new community centres were destroyed.

"On July 11 last, the Old Community Clubhouse was set on fire... this was a beloved space where community events were held, children got to meet Santa and many parties were had.

"The community has been devastated to see this happen to the beloved old community space."

Ms Battault continued: "Then, in the early hours of July 25 last, the New Community Clubhouse was broken into and destroyed.

"The door was bent and broken by what is thought to be a crowbar.

"The centre was destroyed. Everything was pulled out of presses and thrown around, lights were pulled out of the ceiling, fire extinguishers were released, wine splashed all over the walls, and, most devastatingly, the boiler was hit multiple times with something sharp and burst open, flooding the whole centre and causing water damage everywhere.

"There was damage to windows, walls, door handles... anything you can think of has been broken, destroyed or soaked."

She explained that the Clubhouse is run completely by local volunteers and 'hosts so many incredible community events/activities', such as: the Local Choir; Crochet Club; Running Club; Christmas and Halloween parties; the Saint Stephens Day 5K Run; and Clongory Soccer Club (for underage boys and girls).

Ms Battault further said: "A walking track was completed recently with funding from the national lottery, and this is used by many in the community.

"The community association has also organised St Brigid’s Day events and an incredible walking tour of Clongorey, showcasing the history of the Clongorey evictions.

A photograph showing some of the damage inside of the Clubhouse. Credit: Niamh Battault via GoFundMe.

"This was a ticketed event and all funds raised (besides costs) were given to local charities.

"The community is absolutely devastated by these acts of vandalism which will affect so many... in small communities like this, areas of connection are extremely important for all those that live there."

According to Ms Battault, the funds raised will be used for the following: to replace fire extinguishers; to replace the boiler; to install new carpets; to repair all damage to the properties; to replace door with a roller door in order to avoid future break-ins; to install CCTV; and to secure the Old Clubhouse after the fire.

She also said: "While the association has insurance, we are unsure what will be paid out and many of the needs are immediate so we cannot wait.

"All funds will be used to continue security up-keep and CCTV."

Ms Battault concluded: "Thank you so much for taking the time to read, and please consider sharing this on your socials too."

The GoFundMe page for the Clubhouse can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/repair-colongorey-community.

As of the time of this article's publication, the campaign has raised €1,495 of its €15,000 goals.