Donegal Women’s Centre is celebrating 35 years of commitment to improving the lives of women in Donegal.

Established by a dedicated group of volunteers, the Centre was born out of a vision to create a safe, supportive space for women, a place “for women, run by women.”

Over the past 35 years, it has grown into a cornerstone of the community, offering holistic support services that promote healing, equality, and empowerment.

From its inception, the Centre focused on improving women’s physical, mental, and social well being. One of its earliest achievements was the establishment of a family planning clinic, thanks to the crucial support of the HSE. This initiative laid the foundation for a wide range of services that now address the diverse needs of women across Donegal.

Speaking on behalf of the Donegal Women’s Centre, Centre Manager Mary Herlihy commented, “At Donegal Women’s Centre, we provide a safe and confidential space for women to access the support they need. Whether it’s through one on one counselling, group sessions, or simply having someone to listen, we’re here to help women navigate the challenges they face. Every woman deserves to be heard, valued, and supported in a compassionate environment.”

“The Donegal Women’s Centre is a place where women can come to heal, connect, and rebuild their lives. Whether they are struggling with personal issues, domestic violence, or mental health challenges, we’re here to offer the support they need to move forward with confidence,” concludes Mary.

Today, Donegal Women’s Centre in Letterkenny offers a variety of essential services:

Domestic Abuse Trauma Psychotherapy and Counselling Service: Delivered by accredited counsellors, this service provides critical support to women who have experienced domestic abuse. It is offered both at the Centre and in community outreach locations.

Donegal Community Counselling Service: A low cost, confidential counselling and psychotherapy service that ensures women receive professional and ethical care, regardless of their financial situation.

Listening Service: For women feeling isolated, anxious, or overwhelmed, this service offers face to face or phone support from trained listeners who provide a confidential space to discuss any problem, big or small.

Ilash Young Women’s Sexual Health Clinic: A free, drop in clinic for women aged 17-26, providing consultations, contraception, sexual health checks, and counselling in a supportive, confidential environment.

Women’s Health & Family Planning Clinic: Offering a wide range of services, including contraception advice, cervical screening, pregnancy testing, and referrals, this clinic remains a vital resource for women across Donegal.

Siobhan Cullen, Chairperson of the Board added, “Our board is deeply committed to ensuring that Donegal Women’s Centre remains a place of refuge and hope for women across the county. The services we provide are not only about offering professional support, but also about creating a community where women feel seen and heard, no matter what they are going through.”

“As a board, we are proud to be part of an organisation that plays such an important role in helping women regain their strength and confidence. It is our mission to ensure that every woman in Donegal knows she has a place to turn when she needs support.”, says Siobhan.

The Centre’s holistic approach to healing and empowerment is underpinned by its commitment to addressing societal challenges such as discrimination, violence, and injustice against women.

This mission has been sustained through the generous support of funders, including HSE West, Tusla, the HSE Crisis Pregnancy Programme, Donegal ETB, Victims of Crime, and HSE National Lottery Grants.

The Centre’s success would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the volunteers who established it and the team that have tirelessly worked in the centre until and including today. The vision and dedication created a foundation for a thriving organisation that continues to evolve to meet the needs of women today.

Reflecting on this milestone, the Centre’s team extends heartfelt thanks to the community, funders, and all who have supported their mission over the past 35 years. As they look to the future, Donegal Women’s Centre remains committed to providing a safe, empowering space for all women, ensuring its legacy of healing, support, and equality continues for generations to come.

For more information about services or to get more information, contact Donegal Women’s Centre at 074 91 24985 or email donegalwomenscentre@gmail.com. Visit www.donegalwomenscentre.ie to learn more.