22/09/2026
We have been asked to share the below regarding fundraising for a new wheelchair-accessible 14- seater patients' bus for St. Joseph's Community Hospital.
St. Joseph's has cared for generations of people from every corner of Donegal, and so many families, at home and in Dublin, have had a parent, relative or friend who was a patient there over the years. Its reach and importance extend far beyond Stranorlar itself.
For many years, St. Joseph's had its own patients' bus, which gave patients the freedom to get out into the community, attend local events and day centres, enjoy days out, attend family occasions and funerals, and spend valuable time with friends and relatives outside the hospital.
Sadly, that bus had to be taken off the road last year, and its loss has had a very real impact on the patients' independence and quality of life. Essential transport can still be arranged for appointments and planned journeys, but without a wheelchair-accessible bus of their own, patients can miss out on spontaneous outings, community events and opportunities to socialise.
These are people who have contributed to their communities and to society throughout their lives, and we feel very strongly that they should continue to feel connected to, and part of, the community for as long as possible. A dedicated bus gives them that freedom, dignity and independence.
Our fundraising target is €100,000, and in just the first two weeks since our appeal launched we have already raised almost €5,000. Every share and every donation, however small, brings the bus closer to the road.
We would be hugely grateful if you would share our appeal with your members and through your page or networks.
Donations can be made here:
https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/17231
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and for any support you can give. It would mean the world to the patients and to everyone working to get their bus back on the road. It would be something truly special - a bus for our patients, provided by the Donegal community they have been part of all their lives, at home and beyond.
St. Joseph s Patients Bus Fundraising Campaign from iDonate, the online fundraising people.