Red Cross appeal for public support to continue services
FUNDRAISING ‘SOCIALLY DISTANCED’ RUN, WALK OR CYCLE SET TO GO AHEAD IN NORTH CORK DURING THE JUNE BANK HOLIDAY
“DURING the day they wear their front-line workers’ uniform – and then they come home and they put on their volunteer uniforms.”
This is how Mallow and Charleville Red Cross fund-raiser Mary Carey described her colleagues in the organisation who have been working flat out since the outbreak of COVID-19 to bring vital PPE to nursing and care homes in north Cork, as well as bringing comfort packages to the elderly and vulnerable.
The organisation, which runs a number of vehicles and opened a new building in recent years, is now facing a funding crisis as it has been unable to finance its operations in the normal way through charging organisers for attending sporting and other public events, and holding their own fundraising activities.
Now they’re organising a 5km walk, run or cycle event for the June Bank Holiday weekend, and they’re asking people to do whatever they choose within the Government’s social distancing restrictions.
“We need your help, we are unable to carry out our annual fundraising events this year, which covers the costs of maintaining our vehicles and equipment on a yearly basis. Therefore we are holding a 5km event the June Bank Holiday weekend, walk run or cycle.
“So we ask that you complete this event over the weekend within the government guidance of social distancing and make a donation to our GoFundMe page and tag all your friends and family.”
While the fundraising events they carried out pre COVID-19 are suspended, the costs of running vehicles – fuel, insurance and maintenance – are continuing, and there’s also the costs associated with their building.
“We’re all volunteers,” Mary said. “We’re really struggling to meet the continuing costs without any revenue or other fundraising.
“For us to continue working, we need to be able keep these vehicles on the road and maintained to a national standard.”
Already a number of local athletics clubs – Mallow AC, North Cork AC, Mount Hillary AC and Bweeng Trailblazers – have confirmed they will be encouraging their members to participate. Local councillors are also expressing their support and the Go Fund Me page is beginning to gather momentum.
“We’re really grateful for the support we’re getting so far. While there are so many great charities to support, this local charity will be there for you in your time of need and there to look after you during your sporting events,” said Mary. “We need you to support us in our time of need.”
They hope to be able to announce other measures to highlight the issue shortly.