This Kerry pub is offering free Christmas dinner to those in need

"Struggles are often closer to home than we realise.”

Christmas is one of the most magical times of year - but it can also be one of the hardest. For people who have lost loved ones, or may find themselves in need, the festive season can be one of the hardest to get through. Thankfully, one pub in Kerry is trying to make the holiday season a bit more magical for those who may be struggling. For the second year in a row, Connie K’s in Rathmore is offering free Christmas dinners to the homeless, elderly and families in need. They shared the kindly holiday initiative on Facebook, encouraging people to come into the restaurant if they’re spending Christmas alone. The post read:

"Not only the homeless go without Christmas dinner. Struggles are often closer to home than we realise. "We at Connie K's are offering free Christmas dinner for homeless/elderly and families in need.”

The traditional festive feast will be available for collection at the restaurant from December 23 until December 25. They added that people can call “in strict confidence” to avail of the dinner. It's the second year in a row that Connie K's have made the kindhearted gesture for people who may be struggling over the holidays. Last year, they took to Facebook to explain why they were offering dinners to those in need this Christmas:

"I recently spoke to a lady only a few steps away from my front door and after a brief emotional chat as she was very upset, I was shocked to learn of the struggle she and her family faced on a daily basis in our locality. "To provide even the most basic things like food & Clothing she seemed to be dreading the thought of Christmas. "We read and hear about these things every day but sometimes we dont realise how close to home people are affected."