‘Ghostbusting’ in Doneraile Park for Mallow’s Anchor Centre
SPIRITS, ghouls, warlocks and witches will be hovering around Doneraile Park on Saturday, October 29 for the return of the annual Anchor Centre ‘Ghostbusters’ family 5km run/walk.
Now in its third year, the event has become a regular fixture on the local Halloween calendar, with proceeds going to help the Mallow centre’s ongoing work to help those struggling with addiction.
Participants are encouraged to ‘get into the spirit’ of the day by dressing up in fancy dress and competing for the best costume.
The Anchor Centre was established in 1995 by the Sisters of Mercy who recognised the need for community based counselling services for addicts and a support network for families.
Based at Spa Glen, the centre employs eight staff, including full and part-time councillors, offering treatment to people over the age of 18 from the local area, Cork City, Kerry, Tipperary and Limerick.
It operates an ‘open door’ policy for people who can self refer to the service and works in close conjunction with TUSLA and the Probation Service.
However, it receives no government funding, events such as ‘Ghostbusters’ are vitally important in terms of raised the money needed to keep up the exceptional levels of care and attention they offer to everyone who comes through their door.
Ann Kennelly, operations manager at the Anchor Centre, said the centre takes a holistic approach to treatment.
“We make sure the entire family gets involved in our counselling services as it’s not just the afflicted person who is affected by addition. We offer complimentary therapies, acupuncture and stress relieving techniques to help people cope with situations they face on a daily basis.
Ann pointed out that the demand for their addition counselling services was on the increase.
“No one is turned away from the Anchor Centre. Our highly trained and qualified staff deal with alcohol, drug and gambling additions as well as eating disorders,” said Ann. “We have seen a spike in demand for our services, especially from young men and women dealing with gambling addiction. So this year, more than ever, the funds raised will help us to help those coming through our doors.” Registration for Ghostbusters 2016 can be done online at www.ghostbusters5k.com at a cost of €10 per adult, €5 for children and €20 for a family.