Award-winning food writer and TV presenter Donal Skehan is back to launch the 17th Annual Great Irish Bake for sick children, taking place on Friday, 11th April 2025.

Proudly supported by Gem, marking their seventh year as sponsor, this beloved campaign encourages people across Ireland to raise vital funds for Children’s Health Ireland hospitals and urgent care centres in Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght, and Connolly.

Joining Donal this year is star patient six-year-old Sara from Cork, who has undergone multiple lifechanging surgeries since birth due to a rare genetic condition affecting her skull’s development.

Sara’s courage and resilience serve as a touching reminder of the many children who benefit from the essential funds raised through this campaign.

Donal, a long-time supporter of Children’s Health Foundation, shared his personal connection to the cause after his own son received care in Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street last Christmas.

“Seeing the incredible work of the hospital staff first-hand was extraordinary. They are true superheroes,” Donal said.

In 2024, the Great Irish Bake raised over €170,000, funding life-saving equipment and cutting-edge medical technologies.

Fionnuala O’Leary, CEO of Children’s Health Foundation, expressed gratitude to all supporters, highlighting the profound impact of their contributions on young patients and their families.

Gem Pack Foods Managing Director, Bobby Mulligan, celebrated the company’s continued sponsorship, emphasising the difference the event makes for over 300,000 sick children treated annually at Children’s Health Ireland facilities.

“Let’s make this year’s event the most successful yet!” he urged.

Everyone is encouraged to take part—whether by hosting bake sales, bake offs, cupcake decorating contests, or other fun baking events to raise some much-needed dough!

Participants can register at www.childrenshealth.ie/ GreatIrishBake to receive their very own Great Irish Bake pack to help make their event a success including posters, a coinbox, bunting and more.

Get involved and help ‘bake’ a difference for sick children across Ireland — it’s a piece of cake!

Photo: Donal Skehan with star patient Sara, from Cork