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05 Oct 2025

Community close to €100k target for woman whose home was destroyed by Storm Éowyn

Galway community gathered together to give back to Maureen Folan for all of her kindness, warmth and generosity in a time of great need

Community close to €100k target for woman whose home was destroyed by Storm Éowyn

Reporter:

Edana Flynn

05 Feb 2025 4:24 PM

A community in Carna, Co. Galway have managed to raise €99,570 of a €100k target for Maureen Folan whose home was tragically destroyed as a result of Storm Éowyn.
A GoFundMe was set up for Maureen by friend Gerard Kirrane who appealed to the local community and wider public to "show Maureen the same love and kindness she’s always shown to others and remind her that she’s not alone in this."
Maureen, a widow who lives alone, is known and loved throughout her community for her warmth, generosity, and unshakable kindness. Gerard said: "Many of us, myself included, have been blessed by Maureen’s hospitality—whether it was a cup of tea, a big fry after a big night out, her fabulous baking, a kind word, or a helping hand.
"She goes above and beyond for everyone, no matter how well she knows them."
Maureen's home, which has been in her family for generations was destroyed during the storm with the roof getting completely blown off, her belongings were scattered across fields, and the house suffering severe structural damage.
Gerard said: "It’s hard to overstate the heartbreak of seeing such a cherished place, so full of memories, reduced to rubble.
"To make matters even more challenging, due to certain circumstances, insurance isn’t available to cover the costs of rebuilding. That’s where we, as her friends, family, and community, step in."
Gerard said that the campaign is a way for all who care about Maureen to come together and help her rebuild not just a house, but a home with 100% of the funds raised going directly to Maureen. 
The community are also supporting her by ensuring she has the resources to restore her home and also includes temporary housing, reconstruction, essential supplies, and replacement of other lost damaged and goods.

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