RTÉ's People in Need Telethon appeal raised over €7.5 million yesterday.
The appeal was broadcast on RTÉ One and Two yesterday.
While donations poured in from viewers and the thousands of fundraisers around the country, proceeds from the charity reality TV show Celebrities Go Wild were also added on.
All funds raised will be distributed to charities and community groups around Ireland , with money raised in each county going back into that county.
Some €42.5 million has been collected since the event began in 1988. Michael Healy Rae, who was crowned as Celebrities Go Wild winner by viewers, said: "I want to thank everybody who texted during the week, not just for me.
"All this has been about raising money, creating awareness of poverty in our affluent society. I want to compliment the seven finest people I've ever had the privilege of walking anywhere with, or crawling anywhere with even." Margaret Heffernan, founding director of People in Need, said she was delighted the Telethon has raised so much money.
"The People in Need Trust is delighted at the response to our appeal for funds to help charities all over the country," she added.
"Hundreds of small charities will directly benefit from People in Need grants and once again the Irish people have surpassed themselves with their generosity."