This Winter, WillowWarm launched Random Acts of Warmth. A nationwide campaign which encouraged people across the country to nominate a worthy neighbour, community member, friend, or family member who has gone above and beyond. Someone who deserved a little treat.

Every nomination for someone who deserved the prize was a further act of warmth and kindness. People across the island of Ireland nominated someone deserving to receive a beautifully curated Winter hamper. Each hamper included our premium WillowWarm briquettes, along with a selection of bespoke, Irish-made winter treats from small Irish businesses. 

The WillowWarm team was moved and beyond grateful to receive over 1,300 heartfelt entries, each filled with heartwarming examples of pure kindness for others. 

Our hampers were hand-delivered as a surprise by WillowWarm Brand Ambassador Dermot Bannon himself, creating unforgettable, emotional moments.

All of the recognised nominees and their families were incredibly deserving and genuinely touched by the recognition they received.

Random Acts of Warmth has been a true celebration of warmth, generosity, and community, and as a result, has spread even more warmth across Ireland. 

Supporting Families and Children with Autism Entering the Education System 

Carol Dillon, is a special needs education teacher who was nominated by a parent for the compassion and kindness shown to her son, who was diagnosed with Autism. Here’s what Carol’s Nominator had to say: “She was amazing at setting us up on our autism journey. A huge credit to her and all the families she’s worked with. She’s just fantastic, and we’re all so grateful for Carol. My son has now started school, and it’s because of Carol and the foundation she built, but she’d never admit it.”

Over 50 Years Rescuing and Rehoming Animals

Fiona Gammel was nominated for her 50+ years of tireless fundraising and dedication to the welfare and placement of unwanted animals from all over the county. Her charity Wicklow Animal Welfare is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs, cats, and horses from all over the country.

Her hard work and commitment seem to be endless and have not gone unnoticed by her many WAW adopters, who are very appreciative of their new family members. This was an emotional visit for Fiona, Dermot, and the WAW team, who were present to celebrate the tireless work of volunteers that often goes unrecognised. 

A Hero With and Without the Uniform On

Stephen Gallagher; a Firefighter at Dublin Airport, was nominated for bringing warmth to every corner of his community. He recently ran the Dublin City Marathon alongside several of his colleagues in his full Fire Brigade uniform, carrying nearly 30KG of firefighting equipment the entire way. His incredible effort raised much needed funds for charity and caught the attention of the nation.

On top of his heroic work at Dublin Airport, Stephen is heavily involved in his community. His involvement includes leading the Artane Beaumont Running Club, volunteering with Craobh Chiaráin GAA Club, and supporting the Donnycarney Scouts. His dedication, generosity, and energy seem endless

Turning a Row of Houses into a Community

Johnny from South Dublin is best known in his community for bringing his suburban town together by spreading warmth and connection.

Through his love for connecting with people and acts of kindness, he manages to puts smiles on everyone’s faces. 

Research shows that simple acts of kindness not only lift the spirits of those who receive them but also improve the wellbeing of those who give them. Through the idea of paying it forward, your act of recognition could spark a ripple effect of goodwill across the community. 

These incredible individuals reminded us that warmth isn’t just about heat, it’s about kindness, care, and community.