Minister Ahern to open new Lifestyle centre

LIFESTYLE Development Group will celebrate another milestone in its distinguished history when its new premises opens in Ballsgrove this Monday.

In what is seen as a recognition of its great contribution to Drogheda life, the premises will be officially opened by Social, Community and Family Affairs Minister Dermot Ahern, and blessed by Bishop Michael Smith.

The Lifestyle project provides second chance education, a childcare facility and counselling service, primarily for the estates of Ballsgrove,

Rathmullen

Park, St. Finian’s Park, Marley’s Court,

Rowan Heights,

Beechwood

Drive and Marian Park, but also has participants coming from further afield.

Since its foundation in 1992 under the direction of the tireless Sr. Ann Brady (pictured) and coordinated now by the equally dedicated Anne McCabe, the project has expanded from an initial 12 participants to approximately 220 each week, who take part in classes ranging from keep fit to crochet, personal development, art and typing.

Classes are attended by both men and women and a creche facility is available for use by participants.

The new Lifestyle Centre marks a further stage of development for the project. Up until now, the offices of the project have been based in the Sisters of Mercy house in Ballsgrove, whose support of the project since its inception is greatly appreciated. The project has also rented premises from the Parish and Holy Family Boxing Club.

Originally called Women’s Lifestyle Development Group, the project got off the ground when Sr. Ann met with local women and professionals to discuss the needs of women living in the local community.

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