Specsavers Dundalk and St Kevin’s GAA Club treat elderly fans to match day trip

A group of older Louth GAA fans enjoyed a trip to Defy Páirc Mhuire where they watched Louth comprehensively defeat homeside Fermanagh recently thanks to an initiative by Specsavers Dundalk.

Specsavers Dundalk teamed up with St Kevin’s GAA club, Philipstown, Dunleer in the initiative that aims to reconnect older and more vulnerable people within the GAA community, providing a bursary fund to St Kevin’s GAA club to bring the elderly and more vulnerable in the local community to the Louth vs Fermanagh Allianz League football match.

The initiative, now in its second year, is a nationwide campaign by Specsavers to support those who may have fallen out of the habit of going to GAA games in recent years and who otherwise might not have the opportunity to attend, enjoy a day out watching their favourite sport. The success of last year’s initiative saw a growth in clubs’ interest to participate and so, Specsavers are delighted to facilitate the initiative in all 32 counties across the island of Ireland.

“‘Looking out for our community is so important to us, so this was another way for us to help those who may have been shielding during the pandemic and to encourage them to re-connect with the wider society and get back to enjoying the activities they love the most.,” Specsavers Dundalk, Director Tomas Mulholland said. “We were delighted to work with St Kevin’s GAA club on this initiative and we hope that everyone enjoyed the day.’

“Our customers are at the heart of our

Dundalk store and our older customers are a key focus for us. We know that regular social interaction, the forming of relationships and connections within social networks generates higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing in older people which is why we were delighted to work with our local GAA club on this initiative.’

Michelle Mooney, PRO at St Kevin’s, thanked all the staff at Specsavers Dundalk for organising a great day trip.

“During our 75th anniversary, this was a great opportunity to recognise those who have dedicated their lives to the ethos, “the club is the community, and the community is the club.” and their legacy goes far beyond the pitch. It was a great day out and one which our community members will remember.”