Louth Rose Aoife is off to Belarus to act as volunteer in children’s asylum

LOUTH Rose Aoife Heffron is set to travel to Chernobyl as a volunteer at the Vesnova Children’s Mental Asylum in Belarus.

The Dundalk woman will travel with The Rose of Tralee International Festival & Chernobyl Children International to volunteer alongside a number of her fellow Roses, Escorts and the 2017 Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne.

Preparing herself for the emotional challenges ahead, Aoife said that she is ‘ looking forward to giving time to the children, to play and give hugs.’ ?

‘I was really inspired by Megan Ferguson (Louth Rose 2016) when she spoke about her time in Chernobyl. She said that the children there simply wanted hugs, and I thought then, even before I was named Louth Rose, that is definitely one thing that I can do to help.’

As part of her volunteer experience, Aoife is also aiming to raise €1,500 towards the vital work of the charity there, and the urgent supplies needed by the children. ‘I have set a goal to raise at least €1,500, that will go directly to the CCI and will be used for much needed medical supplies for the children still being affected by the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster 32 years later.’

Aoife hosted a major fundraising event at Russell’s Gim Emporium on Friday night last, and is hoping that people will continue to support the cause by donating directly to the charity through the ‘everydayhero’ fund page she has set up.

‘I will also be accepting donations of items such as nappies, sudo cream, blankets, toys, clothes, baby wipes etc. These are essential everyday items that can be in short supply.’

Aoife added that anyone who wants to donate goods can send her a private message to arrange collection or drop off.’ ‘ The CCI and myself would be so grateful for anything you can spare, every little will help me reach my goal and aid the CCI in continuing their fantastic work in caring for these wonderful children.’

Aoife added that she is enjoying a ‘ busy year’ in her role representing the county.

Anyone who would like to donate to the work of the Chernobyl charity can do so directly through the linkhttps://give. everydayhero.com/ie/louth-rose-s-volunteer