Local Galway Businesses You Can Support After Storm Éowyn
Living on the west of Ireland offers breathtaking beauty and rich culture, but it also makes us vulnerable to the fierce forces of the Atlantic and the power outages that often follow. Recently, many local businesses have been hit hard by Storm Éowyn, leaving them facing tough challenges. A number of affected businesses are working hard to recover, and your support can make a real difference – keep scrolling for some ideas.
Additionally, f you're still without power or water, or just need a pick-me-up after the weekend, we’ve also put together a list of businesses offering all kinds of help. Check out the list to see how they can assist you during this time.
Galway businesses affected by Storm Éowyn and how you can help
An Garraí Glas
These growers faced devastating losses following Storm Éowyn. An Garraí Glas farm, known for growing year-round, offers tours in the summer and autumn, and provides educational experiences in the winter.
The storm has torn apart three out of their four tunnels, and they have lost much of their hard work. The beautiful pine tree that once stood proudly is gone, but the rest of the farm can be rebuilt with the support of the community.
The farm has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help rebuild and recover. Donations can be made through the link in their bio or directly via this GoFundMe link.
Ig: @angarraiglas
Mad Yolk farm
Mad Yolk Farm has faced significant challenges following recent storm damage. Despite the setback, the farm shop has reopened, offering fresh produce, including salad, carrots, parsnips, potatoes, onions and honey, as well as sourdough.
Thanks to the incredible support from neighbours and the wider community, fallen trees have been cleared, making the farm accessible again.
Ig: @madyolkfarm
Oranmore Farm
Storm Eowyn caused significant damage to Oranmore Organic Farm, a small certified organic farm dedicated to providing fresh, chemical-free food to the local community.
Three of the farm’s largest polytunnels were destroyed, others were severely damaged, and their spring crops were lost. Having only recently achieved organic certification after years of hard work, this was a devastating blow.
The farm is now seeking support to rebuild and recover. Donations will help to replace and repair damaged polytunnels, strengthen structures for future storms and restore spring crops.
Standún
With record-breaking power outages across the country, many businesses are facing significant losses after being forced to close for an unprecedented period. Standún’s store in Spiddal remains closed and isn’t expecting power to be restored until 5th February.
To thank their loyal customers for their patience, they are offering 20% off your next online purchase with the code STORM20. This is a fantastic way to support the business in the aftermath of the storm while also treating yourself after a long and challenging January.
Ig: @standunireland
The Hurl Shed
The Hurl Shed, based just outside Athenry, specialises in handcrafted ash hurls. True to its name, the business operates mostly from a shed, where the art of crafting these hurls is carefully carried out. Unfortunately, during Storm Éowyn, the shed was destroyed, leaving the team unable to continue production or sales for the time being.
Despite this setback, The Hurl Shed is determined to rebuild and continue offering their high-quality, handcrafted hurls. If you’re a fan of their products or would like to support them as they recover, follow their page for updates on when they’ll be reopening. Your support will help them return stronger than ever.
Ig: @thehurlshed
Galway businesses offering support and services
56 Central Restaurant
In response to the challenges caused by Storm Éowyn, 56 Central in Galway is offering vital support to the community. Visitors are encouraged to drop in to charge their phones and power banks. Remote workers are also welcome, with plenty of space available for working throughout the day.
Armada Spanish Point
The team at Armada Spanish Point in Clare has opened up their suites as a “Locals Lounge” this week, offering a warm and welcoming space for the community to gather, recharge, and take a break.
There’s no obligation to buy anything; the hotel invites the community to bring their own food, snacks, or even a picnic. Feel free to bring along the kids’ favourite toys, a good book, or simply come for a chat. Tea and coffee will be available for all, free of charge. The space will feature a film, plenty of charging points for phones, and a comfortable environment to unwind.
Clasby’s Restaurant
Clasby’s Restaurant was significantly impacted by the devastation of Storm Éowyn, which caused severe damage to their roof. Once power was restored, the restaurant demonstrated incredible community spirit by offering free chicken curry, freshly prepared by Chef Ronan, to anyone still without power or in need of a warm meal. It’s heartening to see a local business step up in such a challenging time, showcasing the true meaning of community support and solidarity.
Ig: @clasbys_1864
Clifden Town Hall
Clifden Town Hall is one of the many community centres coming together to extend its support to the community as water and electricity is still to return to the area. Staff will be available all day to assist those in need, with further updates to follow. For assistance, contact the Hall directly at 095 30780. This initiative, supported by Galway County Council and FORUM Connemara CLG, aims to provide help to those affected by recent disruptions.
The Connacht and Hyde Hotel
The Aviary at The Connacht Hotel and Jekyll Bar at Hyde Hotel has opened this week as a free communal workspace throughout the week. Whether you need to catch up on emails, take meetings, charge devices or just need a break and some hospitality, it’s the perfect place to settle in for the day. They have free WiFi, plenty of space to spread out and complimentary in-room tea and coffee stations.
Ig: @theconnacht
Ig: @hydehotelgalway
Cregmore Park Golf Course
In times of hardship, it’s heartening to see communities come together. Cregmore Park Golf Course is one of many local businesses offering support to those without power, inviting people to drop in to charge devices, collect water, or to have a shower. They are also taking bookings for games of golf, so if you’re just looking to enjoy a round, call 091 799799 to book your tee time.
Jennings Butchers Dunmore
One of our followers let us know that Jennings Butchers in Dunmore has been keeping the community fed, serving nearly 200 people daily with delicious, cheap meals. With Dunmore not expected to have electricity restored until 5th February, this has been a great relief to residents.
Lady Gregory Hotel Gort
The Lady Gregory Hotel in Gort has shown just how important it is to support local businesses by opening its doors to offer hot showers and a place to charge devices. With so many people struggling in the area with no power, this has been an invaluable help.
Trieste Cafe and Wine Bar
In response to ongoing power, heating, and water disruptions caused by Storm Éowyn, Trieste Cafe and Wine Bar has updated its delivery service to support the community. The delivery radius has been expanded to 20km, covering Kilcolgan, Athenry, Clonboo, Roscahill, and Spiddal.
Delivery fees have been waived for the next week, and customers can use the coupon code “Trieste10” to receive 10% off all orders. If you need bottled water, batteries, fuel, or supplies, just let them know, and they’ll deliver.
IG: @trieste_galway
Wildlands
Wildlands, an incredible activity centre in Moycullen, Co. Galway, is not only an outdoor adventure destination but also one of the many businesses offering vital support to those still without power. They are providing free WiFi, hot drinks and snacks, showers, charging stations, hot water, and a remote working space. Open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, it’s fantastic to see them supporting the community. We’ll be sure to enjoy a day out at Wildlands this year!