
Corkman Wins as SVP Car Draw Raises €192,538.70

A Cork man has won a brand-new Ford Focus car in this year’s St Vincent de Paul Annual Car Draw, which has generated an impressive €192,538.70 to support people in need across the region.
The draw took place on 15th January 2026 at Cork City Ford Showrooms, Forge Hill, Cork, where Lord Mayor Cllr. Fergal Dennehy drew the First Prize and contacted the lucky winner, Michael McCarthy from Blarney, Co. Cork, who won a fabulous Ford Focus car.
The funds raised will be used to assist individuals and families experiencing hardship during the winter months and beyond.
Prize Winners
In addition to the First Prize, there were several other lucky winners on the day:
- 1st Prize: A fabulous Ford Focus
(Part sponsored by Cork City Ford)
Winner: Michael McCarthy, Blarney - 2nd Prize: Holiday to the value of €2,500
(Part sponsored by Barter’s Travelnet)
Winner: S. O’Sullivan, Caherciveen - 3rd Prize: Overnight stay at Fota Island Resort including breakfast, a three-course dinner, and 60-minute treatments
(Sponsored by Fota Island Resort)
Winner: L. Looney, Ballincollig - 4th Prize: Two tickets to the All-Ireland Hurling Final, including B&B and dinner
Winner: S. Moriarty, Castletownbere - 5th Prize: €1,000 shopping voucher
(Part sponsored by SuperValu)
Winner: I. Halpin, Cork City - 6th Prize: €250 cash prize
Winner: I. McGrath, Cork City - 7th Prize: €1,500 cash prize
(Sponsored by the Bishop of Cork & Ross, the Bishop of Cloyne, and the Bishop of Kerry)
Winner: M. Komara, Rochestown
Speaking at the presentation of the car at Cork City Ford Showrooms, the South West Regional President of SVP expressed sincere gratitude to the people of Cork and Kerry for their continued generosity, noting that the Annual Car Draw—now in its 25th year—remains a vital source of funding for the Society’s work in the region.
A special word of thanks was also extended to Car Draw Ambassador Francis Brennan, along with all sponsors and suppliers who supported the draw throughout the year. Thanks to their generosity and the support of the public, €192,538.70 was raised in 2025 to help provide a lifeline to those most in need.
As SVP congratulates all the winners and wishes Michael McCarthy safe driving, preparations are already underway for the 2026 Annual Car Draw, where another fantastic car and exciting prizes will once again be up for grabs.
About SVP
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) was founded in Ireland in 1844. It is the largest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland.
We take a hands-on approach to combating poverty, dedicating ourselves to reducing its effects on individuals and families. We engage directly with those in need through our unique family visitation system.
Our mission is to champion social justice and secure equal opportunities for everyone.
Please visit us at www.svp.ie to find out more about the works of The Society of St Vincent de Paul.
We are available to take your call on 021 427 0444 or email us at Info.SouthWest@svp.ie if you require help, support or want to donate.