Athlone and Mullingar residents asked to recycle Christmas lights for a good cause

Athlone and Mullingar residents are being urged to recycle unwanted electronic toys and broken Christmas lights at two special collection points in the town, all to help grant wishes for children with critical illnesses.

KMK Metals Recycling, which operates locally in Tullamore and Kilbeggan, has launched its annual Christmas appeal in aid of Make-A-Wish Ireland.

To mark the campaign’s 10th anniversary, the company is expanding beyond Christmas lights to also collect electronic toys or devices with a battery, plug or cable.

Collection containers are in place until the end of January 2026 at Golden Island Shopping Centre, Athlone, and Harbour Place Shopping Centre, Mullingar.

A donation will be made to Make-A-Wish based on the total weight of materials collected.

KMK’s Managing Director, Max Kyck, said the team had seen how many unused electronic toys build up in homes during the festive season.

““It’s hard to believe that it’s 10 years since we started our Christmas fundraising campaign collecting those old and broken lights that hide in attics everywhere. I have my own children now and I am very aware that at this time of year, parents are clearing out old toys to make way for Christmas presents,” he said.

“These games and devices contain critical raw materials. Recycling them properly keeps precious resources in use within the circular economy. By taking part, you can also bring a little hope and happiness to a critically ill child.”

Make-A-Wish Ireland has granted more than 3,500 wishes since 1992, including 214 wishes this year, but demand for its services continues to rise.

Conor Stone, Corporate Partnerships Officer at the charity, said: “We receive no government funding, so support from companies like KMK Metals Recycling and from the public is vital. A huge thank you to everyone who contributes.”