How to Donate to Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Direct Provision

Thousands of refugees and asylum seekers in Ireland live in Direct Provision, a system that provides basic accommodation but often leaves families in need of essential goods like clothing, toys, and household items. If you're looking for ways to donate and support these families, there are many impactful ways to help.

Why Donations Matter

Refugees and asylum seekers often arrive in Ireland with very few belongings. Direct Provision centers provide accommodation and meals, but personal items, baby essentials, and other necessities are not always readily available. Your donations can make a real difference in helping families feel more comfortable and supported as they rebuild their lives.

Ways to Donate to Direct Provision Residents

1. Let’s Match Mums – Donate Baby and Children’s Items

One of the best ways to support refugee families is by donating through Let’s Match Mums, a platform that connects mothers who have baby and children’s items to those who need them. Many asylum-seeking families struggle to access basic baby essentials, and donating items like baby clothes, prams, toys, and nappies can help parents care for their little ones.

👉 How to donate: Visit Let's Match Mums to see how you can match with a mother in need.

2. MASI (Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland)

MASI is a grassroots organization advocating for the rights of asylum seekers. They regularly share donation appeals for items such as clothing, shoes, school supplies, and more.

👉 How to donate: Follow MASI on social media or check their website for donation requests.

3. Direct Provision Support Groups

Many local volunteer groups work directly with people in Direct Provision centers. These groups collect donations and distribute them to families in need. Examples include:

• Doras (Limerick-based)

• Newbridge Asylum Seekers Support Group

• Every Child Is Your Child

👉 How to donate: Look for local Direct Provision support groups in your area and contact them to see what items are most needed.

4. Dublin Donation Drives

Several Dublin-based initiatives organize regular donation drives for Direct Provision residents, particularly in winter when warm clothing is essential.

👉 How to donate: Keep an eye on social media for announcements from groups like Dublin City Volunteer Centre and Refugee and Migrant Solidarity Ireland (RAMSI).

5. Charity Shops Supporting Refugees

Some charity shops donate proceeds to organizations that help asylum seekers. If you have high-quality second-hand clothes or household goods, consider donating to:

• Oxfam Ireland

• SVP (St. Vincent de Paul)

• Irish Refugee Council Shop

• The Hygeine Bank

What to Donate

While every organization has different needs, here are some common items that can be helpful:

✔️ Baby and children’s items – clothes, toys, books, buggies, nappies

✔️ Clothing and footwear – warm jackets, shoes, socks, gloves

✔️ School supplies – backpacks, stationery, books

✔️ Toiletries – shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, sanitary products

✔️ Household essentials – bedding, towels, small appliances (where accepted)

Small Donations, Big Impact

Supporting refugees and asylum seekers in Ireland doesn’t require grand gestures—small acts of kindness, like passing on items you no longer need, can make a huge difference. Whether you donate through Let’s Match Mums, a local support group, or a charity shop, you’re directly helping families in Direct Provision feel more at home.

If you have items to give, start today! Visit Let’s Match Mums to connect with a family in need and make an impact.