A special event will take place this Saturday, March 18th at Donamon Castle to mark the one year anniversary of Ukrainian people arriving to Roscommon.

The ‘The Better Together’ community event will comprise a family day, planned by a number of organisations, including Roscommon Leader Partnership, Roscommon Lions Club, the Roscommon Volunteer Centre and the Kilbegnet Development Associaiton.

A year ago, thirty Ukrainian families, totalling one hundred people arrived at the former Cuisle holiday facility in Donamon. The building, owned by the Divine Word Missionaries, was fitted out and revamped with the aid of a massive local voluntary effort to accommodate refugees fleeing from the war.

‘The Better Together’ Day activities include a castle tour, face painting, arts & crafts, a photo zone, a presentation on the history and culture of Ukraine, sample Ukrainian food, music, dance, sports, a poetry recital and a year in review by one of the Ukrainian residents.

“The event is specifically open to all people who helped the Ukrainians get settled into the community. It’s to acknowledge the work they put in helping to welcome them, to raise funds and to create a new place to call home. Those who helped out in ways both large and small are welcome to come along,” said Shannette Budhai, Manager of Roscommon Volunteer Centre.