SVP SOUTHWEST LAUNCHES 2026 CAR DRAW

Fundraiser more important than ever as growing numbers across Cork and Kerry seek help with food, energy and education costs.

(Issue Sat 12th Sept @ 9am)

SVP Southwest has today launched its 2026 Car Draw fundraising campaign, calling for support for the charity's work across Cork and Kerry as demand for assistance remains at unprecedented levels. 

The annual fundraiser comes at a time when increasing numbers of individuals and families are turning to SVP for help with everyday essentials including food, electricity, gas and education-related costs. 

In 2025, SVP received more than 18,600 requests for assistance from people across Cork and Kerry. More than 1,100 SVP members and volunteers responded to over 8,000 of these requests, representing a 20% increase on the previous year. 

SVP Southwest spent €5.8 million on direct assistance to households throughout the region, including €4.19 million on food, fuel and education supports. This included the distribution of more than 12,000 food hampers and 10,600 food vouchers. 

According to Mary Frances Behan, SVP Southwest Regional President, the figures highlight both the growing need in communities and the importance of local fundraising initiatives such as the annual Car Draw. 

"Behind every request for support is a person, a family, a child or an older person who is facing real challenges and difficult choices," she said. "Many of the people who come to us are struggling with the rising cost of everyday essentials and are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. The generosity of the public through initiatives such as the Car Draw allows our Members and volunteers to respond quickly and compassionately when help is needed most." 

Funds raised through the Car Draw will support SVP's work across Cork and Kerry and help fund the operation of a range of services and community programmes throughout the region, including: 

• Knockadoon Holiday Camp, Co Cork, which provides a residential summer holiday experience each year for 80 children aged between seven and 12. 

• Castleisland Family Resource Centre, Co Kerry, which provides family support services, community education programmes, parenting supports and activities that strengthen families and promote social inclusion. 

• Killorglin Community Care Centre, Co Kerry, a day care service for older people that promotes health, wellbeing and social connection through activities, exercise and nutritious meals.

Launching the 2026 campaign, Francis Brennan, Hotelier, TV Personality and SVP Car Draw Campaign Champion, said he was proud to support a fundraising initiative that delivers such tangible benefits to local communities.

"One of the things that I admire most about SVP is that its Members are deeply rooted in the communities that they serve. Every ticket purchased helps support people locally who may be going through an exceptionally difficult time," he said. "Of course, there is also the excitement of winning a fantastic new car or one of the other wonderful prizes, but the real prize is knowing that your support is helping families across Cork and Kerry access the assistance they need."

Tickets for the 2026 SVP Car Draw are now on sale and are priced at: 

• One ticket for €10
• Three tickets for €25
• Five tickets for €40 

Prizes include: 

• First Prize: A brand-new 2027 Hyundai Tucson, a top-of-the-range family SUV.
• Second Prize: €2,000 Holiday Voucher.
• Third Prize: €1,500 Cash Prize.
• Fourth Prize: Bed and Breakfast with Dinner for Two at Fota Island Hotel & Spa. 

Last year's Car Draw raised over €250,000, with a young man from Carrigaline winning a brand-new Ford Focus in the Society's 2025 Car Draw. 

Mary Frances Behan said the success of the fundraiser has a direct impact on the Society's ability to support people experiencing poverty and disadvantage across the region.

"Every €10 ticket makes a difference. It helps us provide practical support with food, heating, electricity and education costs, while also helping to sustain services that enhance the lives of children, families and older people throughout Cork and Kerry. We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of the public and hope people will once again get behind this important campaign."

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.svp.ie/cardraw26