Press Release for Media
Little Blue Heroes Foundation was established in April 2017 and is a not-for-profit registered charity. It is a voluntary led charity with one person employed to operate the day-to-day running's of the charity. The charity receives no state funding and relies heavily on community support to enable it to provide its services to families in need.
Little Blue Heroes Foundation supports children aged 1–15 years living in Ireland who have serious, life-threatening, or life-limiting medical conditions, including severe genetic disorders, childhood cancers, neurological conditions, and serious organ diseases.
The charity’s two main aims are providing financial support to families directly or indirectly through many of our programmes. It’s second aim is granting the wish of the children we support to become Honorary Gardaí. The children are issued with their own Garda uniform and are welcomed into An Garda Síochána by their local Gardai.
Since its establishment the charity has assisted 1,600 families across Ireland, providing both practical support and memorable experiences that help children and their families during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
To date the charity have assisted 1,600 families and have 660 Honorary Gardai across the country. Little Blue Heroes Foundation has given out over €1,700,000 in direct aid to families over the last nine years.
Key Services Provided by Little Blue Heroes Foundation
Financial Support:
The charity provides financial aid to eligible families to help ease the burden associated with serious childhood illness. Support may assist with expenses such as travel to hospitals, accommodation, essential household costs, and other family needs arising from a child's medical condition.
Honorary Garda Programme:
One of the charity’s flagship services is granting children the opportunity to become Honorary Gardaí. This includes:
· Official induction ceremonies.
· Personal Garda uniforms.
· Visits to Garda stations and specialist units.
· Participation in Garda-themed events and experiences.
· Ongoing engagement with local Gardaí and community members.
The programme helps create positive memories, boosts confidence, and provides children with a sense of belonging and achievement during difficult times.
Family Events and Experiences:
Little Blue Heroes Foundation regularly organises:
· Family fun days.
· Christmas parties and seasonal events.
· Garda-themed activity days.
· Special visits and VIP experiences.
· Community engagement events across Ireland.
These events provide children and families with opportunities to enjoy positive experiences together and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Family Breaks and Respite Opportunities:
Through initiatives such as Project Haven for Heroes, the charity helps families enjoy short breaks and holidays that may otherwise be impossible due to financial pressures or the complexity of a child’s medical needs. These breaks allow families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
Practical and Emotional Support:
The charity works closely with families, local Garda representatives, hospitals, and community volunteers to provide practical assistance and emotional support. This can include hospital visits, family liaison services, and helping families access appropriate supports during difficult periods.
Sarah’s Christmas Gift:
An annual initiative that provides practical support to Little Blue Heroes families during the festive season. Depending on funding, this can include:
· Food shopping vouchers.
· Toy vouchers.
· Fuel vouchers to assist with hospital journeys and family expenses.
The programme was established in memory of Honorary Garda Sarah Robinson and has supported hundreds of families across Ireland.
(Press Release Date 28th May 2026)
Photos with Consent for Media Use
