The Galway Races is proud to announce its participation in ‘Return for Children’, a new charity fundraising initiative from Re-turn, the operators of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme.  The initiative promotes sustainability at large-scale events while raising funds for six of Ireland’s leading children’s charities.

By signing up to ‘Return for Children’, the Galway Races is offering racegoers a new way to support both the environment and vulnerable children. Attendees can donate the deposit from their empty plastic bottles and cans (marked with the Re-turn logo) by placing them in specially designated Re-turn bins located throughout the racecourse. The funds raised will go directly to support six national charities: Barnardos Ireland, Barretstown, Childline by ISPCC, Jack & Jill, LauraLynn Children’s Hospice, and Make-A-Wish Ireland.

Michael Moloney, CEO of Galway Races, said:
“We’ve always been very committed to sustainability, particularly around waste management. We’re delighted to sign up to the ‘Return for Children’ initiative and hope that our attendees will support it, helping us reduce waste while raising much-needed funds for children’s charities.”

‘Return for Children’ is designed for festivals, concerts, and sporting events, allowing organisers to offer attendees the option of donating their bottle and can deposits to a meaningful cause. Each of the six supported charities works to improve the lives of children in Ireland, from healthcare and hospice support to essential services and advocacy for vulnerable children.

The Galway Races joins a growing number of events around the country committed to making a positive impact through sustainable practices and charitable giving.

Collectively the Return for Children charities have said: “We are honoured that the ‘Return for Children’ initiative is being supported at the Galway Races, a festival that brings people together from all over Ireland. By simply returning a bottle or can during their visit, racegoers will help us continue our vital work supporting vulnerable and seriously ill children across the country. Every small act of kindness – like donating a deposit – adds up to make a big difference in young lives. We are deeply grateful to the Galway Races and to everyone who chooses to support us this summer.”

We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Galway Races Summer Festival from Monday 28^th July – Sunday 3^rd August.