THE CLEFT LIP AND PALATE ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

The Cleft Lip and Palate Association of Ireland (CLAPAI) is a volunteer-run charity dedicated to supporting families affected by cleft lip and palate. Based in Dublin and operating nationwide, the organisation offers practical information, emotional support and a community for parents and children navigating treatment - an essential service for the more than 100 babies born each year with a cleft and the roughly 2,000 children currently in care.

CLAPAI's core activities include the production and distribution of information leaflets, newsletters and a specially designed New Parents Information Pack that is sent to every maternity unit in the country. The charity also organises regular information evenings, new-parent gatherings and family fun days, most recently a Family Activity Day at CP Adventure, Russborough House, featuring outdoor challenges and social events for all ages. All funds raised are reinvested directly into these programmes, with donations accepted via online platforms, PayPal and standing orders. Through its network of unpaid volunteers, CLAPAI provides a warm, inclusive environment where families can share experiences, access resources and enjoy a sense of belonging.