A Good Cause for celebration
THE country’s only dedicated grief centre for children has been named as the National Lottery’s inaugural Good Cause Of The Year.
The initiative was organised to shine a light on the extraordinary work of people and organisations making a positive impact in communities all over Ireland.
For almost a decade the volunteer-led Limerick Children’s Grief Centre has been giving a voice to children who have lost a parent or loved one through death, separation, or divorce.
The service has grown in demand since it was set up in 2009 offering unique support sessions.
To date it has given a voice to around 1,200 young people.
Children are given the opportunity to work through their feelings, and empowered to find their voice using play, art, clay, workbooks and stories.
Culture Minister Josepha Madigan said: “Loss whether through death, separation or divorce, can be devastating, especially for the young.
“This award goes to a dedicated voluntary organisation which provides comfort and support to grieving children. “Its committed volunteers work tirelessly all year round to provide an oasis of calm for those who
AT AWARDS ON SATURDAY
one-to-one have lost loved ones, helping them find their voice.”
Sr Helen Culhane founded the centre nine years ago, which helps around 30 children a week, aged four to 18.
In total there are approximately 30 volunteers attached to the centre, which include a retired career guidance teacher, a play therapist, psychologist, psychotherapist, and an art therapist.
Sr Culhane, who was named Limerick Person Of The Year 2017, in February, said the centre was “overjoyed” to receive the award and €35,000 in funding.
She added: “Children often find it difficult to express their feelings through language so by providing them with clay and paint, sand and crayons, we allow them to choose their own form of expression.
“As a result of attending the Children’s Grief Centre it has been shown children are happier, more calm, and have less feelings of anger, guilt and sadness. The impact of this work with children is incredible.”
National Lottery chief Dermot Griffin said it was “fitting that Ireland’s unsung heroes who work quietly under the radar to improve lives and make a difference are honoured in these inaugural National Lottery Good Awards”.
He added: “Their work often goes unrecognised – but it is so valued.”
More than 30 cent in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to good causes across health, sport, youth, community, arts & culture, heritage and the Irish language.
Last year alone €226million was raised for good causes by players – which equates to an incredible €620,000 a day.
The impact of this work with these children is really just incredible
SR HELEN CULHANE