Larkin students ‘Sleigh It’ for Dublin Simon Community

This festive season, the corridors of the local homeless facility were filled with warmth, laughter, and Christmas cheer, thanks to the generosity and festive spirit of students from Larkin Community College.

Dressed in Santa hats, cosy jumpers, and sprinkled with tinsel, the students arrived with a simple but powerful mission: to spread joy, kindness, and a sense of connection to those spending the holiday season away from home. Armed with thoughtfully prepared gifts, festive treats, and plenty of smiles, they brought the magic of Christmas right through the doors of the facility.

From sharing conversations and laughter to delivering gifts and seasonal surprises, the students transformed an ordinary winter day into a celebration of community. Residents were treated to moments of genuine warmth and festive cheer, while staff looked on as the true spirit of the season came to life.

One service user summed up the impact of the visit beautifully, saying, “Once we are treated as neighbours, we are happy.” The simple words captured the true meaning of the day, dignity, connection, and belonging.

Speaking about the visit, class teacher Maire O’Higgins highlighted its importance for everyone involved: “This experience means so much to our students and to the people we visited. It helps the students understand the value of empathy, kindness, and community, while reminding everyone that connection and compassion are especially important at this time of year.”

More than just a visit, the students delivered something far more meaningful, companionship, compassion, and a reminder that no one is forgotten at Christmas. Their kindness turned the facility into a place filled with light, laughter, and hope, even if just for a little while.

Localise would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the students and staff of Larkin Community College for their generosity, empathy, and community spirit. Your actions show that the true magic of Christmas lies not in gifts alone, but in connection, understanding, and the joy of giving back.