Kare welcomes Amazon as Community Champion partner

Kare has announced Amazon as its newest Community Champion partner. The Kildare-based charity supports people with intellectual disabilities across the region, and the partnership has already delivered real change, most visibly at one of Kare's respite houses for children.

The partnership, driven by the team at Amazon's SNN5 fulfilment centre located near the Kildare border, was cemented through a volunteering and improvement project at Kare's children's respite house in Athy, carried out over several months.

A team of volunteers from Amazon SNN5, led by Site Lead Marcus Mallon and Area Manager Chris McGlinchey, worked with Kare to identify needs and carried out a programme of works including painting, fitting of sensory lighting and installation of outdoor play facilities – improvements that are already being felt by the children and families who use the service.

The Community Champion designation reflects the commitment of both Kare and Amazon to building partnerships that go beyond one-off contributions, with both organisations committed to continued collaboration through future volunteering projects and ongoing community investment. Alongside the volunteering contribution, Amazon SNN5 made a financial donation of €5,000 to Kare to support further improvements in the service.

Wayne Kenny, whose children Alex and Lily attend the respite service, spoke of the importance of local respite services and the transformative effect it has had on their lives: “It’s absolutely the best thing that’s ever happened – not only for me but for Alex and Lily as well … the kids are having a great time. It’s literally 10 minutes drive from my house, so I’m at ease that it’s only around the corner and I’m only a phone call away.”

Kare CEO, Margaret O’Neill, welcomed the new partnership with Amazon: "Respite is absolutely vital to the families we support, and the environment where children spend time really matters. The Amazon team has absolutely delivered on this project, while also demonstrating what a meaningful partnership between a corporation and a charity can look like. What struck us most was the hands-on involvement – Marcus and his team have given their time, made a generous donation, and are already thinking about what comes next. That means a great deal to us, and it's the kind of partnership we want more of.”

Amazon SNN5 Site Lead, Marcus Mallon, commented: "When we first learned about Kare’s mission in Athy, we knew this was an opportunity to make a real difference in our community. Our team didn't just want to write a cheque – we wanted to roll up our sleeves and create lasting impact for these families. Seeing the transformation at the respite house and knowing children like Alex and Lily will benefit from our work has been incredibly rewarding for everyone involved."

Kare’s Fundraising and Partnerships Manager, Corrinne Concannon, commented: “Amazon’s approach has been truly impactful. They have shown a real commitment to understanding the needs of our services and delivering meaningful support. This partnership is a strong example of what can be achieved when organisations move beyond intention and take real, hands-on action.”

Organisations interested in partnering with Kare can find out more at www.kare.ie/support-us or contact fundraising@kare.ie.