IN PICTURES: Laois Polish people party in Portlaoise on WOŚP day

The last weekend of January is extremely important for all Poles around the world and it doesn’t matter if you are in America, Africa, Poland or Laois.

The Polish community gathered in Portlaoise to raise funds to purchase medical equipment for children’s hospitals across the country and ensure that all children born in Poland have equal access to state-of-the-art medical treatment and diagnostics. TAP NEXT OR ARROW to see more photos taken by  Renata Metelicka for the Leinster Express / Laois LIVE at St Mary's Hall on Sunday January 29 or READ more about the event below picture.

Says Honorata Puslednik, chairperson WOSP Portlaoise: "WOŚP Portlaoise for the first time joined the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity three years ago. Since then our team has grown bigger and bigger inviting our Irish friends to open their hearts and join the biggest Charity event, so important for the Polish Community living locally in Co. Laois- 

"Last year we got such great support from the local organisations and our Irish friends, that we decided to support some of the local charity organisations, just to say thank you for the generosity of our Irish friends.

"During the 31st Grand Finale we were able to taste some traditional Polish food, enjoy homemade cakes, bubble waffles, have fun during the activities for kids like: slime, lego, sport games and activities, first aid training for kids, and many more," she said.

They also helped the Irish Cancer Society Charity Shop.

"Helping other people in need is really important, and why not do this during Family Fun Day? This year ‘We want to beat sepsis!

"We play for all – the little and big ones! Stay healthy in a healthy world’" she said.