Iris House Cork Cancer Support, a lifeline for individuals and families affected by cancer, is now facing the fight of its life—not against illness, but for its very existence. The centre must urgently raise funds to purchase the building it calls home, following the decision by its current owners to sell. Without public support, the charity could lose its space, putting essential services and a vital sanctuary at risk.
For over a decade, Iris House has offered a safe, welcoming environment for those facing a cancer diagnosis. It is a place of empathy and empowerment, where people find strength, guidance, and community during the darkest moments of their lives. But now, the future of that safe haven hangs in the balance.
“This is more than just a building—it’s where people come to breathe again, to cry, to connect, and to rebuild,” said Linda Goggin James, CEO of Iris House. “We’re not just providing services; we’re holding people through their pain, and helping them find hope. Losing our premises would be a devastating blow not just to us, but to every person who has ever crossed our threshold looking for light in a very dark time.”
Founded in 2011 by the late Ann Dowley Spillane, herself a cancer patient, Iris House began as a grassroots movement to ensure that no one would have to face cancer alone. From The Girls Club Cork to the Cork Cancer Care Centre, and now Iris House, the organisation has evolved to meet growing needs, but its heartbeat has never changed: compassion, connection, and community.
Now, to ensure those values endure, Iris House has launched a major fundraising campaign to purchase its building and secure its long-term future. The team is calling on the people of Cork—and far beyond—to help protect this vital space.
“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about preserving a home that holds thousands of stories, tears, laughs, and moments of pure human resilience,” said Linda. “We need Cork to rally with us—to help us stay open, stay strong, and keep offering this essential support to anyone who needs it.”
How you can help:
- Donate whatever you can to the fundraising campaign
- Share this story with your networks
- Organise or support a community fundraiser
- Advocate with local representatives to back this cause
With your help, we can secure the future of Iris House and ensure that no one in Cork faces cancer without support. To donate, get involved, or find out more, please donate here or contact us directly at office@irishousecork.ie to see how you can help directly!
We also have lots of other options to sponsor us by visiting here.
Check Out some of the Media Coverage of our Campaign here:
