By Róise Collins

THE team behind Letterkenny Pride have thanked everyone who supported their successful fundraiser on Sunday afternoon.

The fundraiser which was originally set to take place at New Kid Coffee in Bonagee had a last-minute change of venue to the coffee roaster’s sister company, The Counter Deli, due to objections, organisers announced via social media.

“We at Letterkenny Pride have always been honest and open about why we exist. It is our mission to foster an inclusive Letterkenny community and end homophobia in all its forms.

“This is the most significant example of homophobia that we have encountered, and that is why we must continue with our fundraiser in a new venue,” the post read.

The Counter Deli in Letterkenny which played host to Sunday’s Pride fundraiser.

Keith Blackburn from New Kid Coffee pictured at the Pride fundraiser held in their sister company, The Counter Deli.

In a follow-up post, Letterkenny Pride shared how it has been a challenging week behind the scenes, but Sunday’s fundraising event reminded them exactly why they must “keep going”.

“We’re absolutely delighted by the turnout — your energy, generosity, and community spirit lifted us up.

“With over 400 donations made today, we raised over €3,000 — bringing us one step closer to an unforgettable Letterkenny Pride.”

The event included a bake sale and a thrift shop filled with pre-loved clothes.

This year’s Letterkenny Pride celebrations are set to take place from August 14 to 16, with the parade scheduled for Saturday, August 16.

“Pride costs up to €30,000 to deliver, and that funding goes toward everything from acts and entertainment to stages, security, insurance, accessibility measures, and all the logistics it takes to create a safe, inclusive and joyful celebration for everyone.”

Cllr Declan Meehan pictured at Sunday’s event with Cllr Tómas Seán Devine.

Speaking to the Donegal News during Sunday’s event Cllr Declan Meehan emphasised the importance of maintaining and supporting Pride events in the town.

He referenced an incident in Ballymena on Saturday, where slurry was spread on the streets just hours before the town’s first Pride parade and also highlighted this weekend’s events in Budapest, where tens of thousands marched in defiance of a banned Pride celebration in the Hungarian capital.

“People ask why we need Pride – but we only need to look around to see why it’s still so important,” said Cllr Meehan.

“So there’s no question why we need it and it’s so important to support events like this,” he added.