A group who bake cakes for people in Direct Provision and Emergency Accommodation hope to expand their work to Laois.
Consider It Cakes was launched by Franciska Acs and partner Darragh Kiely last year.
Since the project was set up last summer, over 500 cakes have been delivered to people living in direct provision with over 300 people currently volunteering to bake and deliver cakes to centres across the country.
As well as giving people a boost with a special delivery, organisers also hope it will let residents know there are people in the wider community who care for them – especially amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Currently operating across Ireland, the are recruiting volunteer bakers in Laois as one of the organisers, Jamie Deery explained.
She said: “We currently have groups set up all around the country and we expanded to Athlone in December.
“I’m now trying to set up a group of volunteers in Laois.
“I also recently set up a group in Offaly, and there are approximately 20 volunteers.
“We also need extra volunteers for there, but for now, we are able to cope with the demand.
“Without a large group of volunteers. we may have to decline requests as we may not have bakers available.
“It’s important that it’s fun for everyone and that nobody is under pressure to bake – and the more volunteers we have, the more we can do.
“We also hope to get involved with homeless charities and arrange bake sales and treat days.”
How it works
Anyone who is homeless, asylum-seeking or simply cannot afford a cake because of their current situation is eligible can request a cake (whatever the occasion) for a child, partner or friend.
All flavours of cakes are available, and people can choose a theme/favourite toppings etc which they otherwise might not be able to afford.
The order is then passed on to a volunteer – simply someone who likes to bake.
That volunteer then sets aside some of their free time to make and deliver the cake. Children also get a little wrapped present for their birthday, such as a stuffed animal or a book.
The group also likes to celebrate events with special “treat days”, for example, Christmas, World Mental Health Day, International Women’s Day and so on.
Laois Branch
You can visit ‘Consider it Cakes’ on Instagram, Facebook or the website for contact details or for further information.
To get involved with the Laois branch, you can also contact Jamie Deery directly on jamie.deery@hotmail.com.
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