Volunteers ready to help community

VOLUNTEERS in Blessington are ramping up their efforts to help vulnerable members of the community during this period of Level 5 restrictions.

The Blessington Covid Community Response Group has once again scaled up to offer support to members of the local community.

People over 70 or those who may be medically vulnerable have been asked to exercise extreme caution during the current surge in Covid-19 cases. For many, that will mean a return to ‘cocooning’ and staying at home.

John Horan, chairperson of the Blessington Town Team, told this paper that all 30 volunteers had confirmed they were available and willing to assist members of the community.

‘ They did not stop, but it was scaled back. Now, people are being encouraged to stay home. We spoke to our volunteers to check their availability and they all said yes.’

While many people have developed their own support structures made up of friends, neighbours and family members, the volunteers are on hand to assist with shopping, collecting prescriptions and other tasks.

‘We have a structure in place. Unlike in March, we’re not starting from scratch,’ Mr Horan said.

In a recent post on the Blessington Town Team Facebook page, Mr Horan stated volunteers were still ready to offer support, particularly to those who may be feeling concerned due to the recent surge in Covid-19 cases.

‘ Thankfully, the Blessington Covid Community Response Group Volunteers continue to be available to support any potentially vulnerable neighbours. They are doing a great service for our community. We appreciate it.’

Posters containing contact information for volunteers are displayed in Blessington and the surrounding area. The response group can also be contacted by emailing blessingtontownteam@ gmail.com or by calling John Horan on 086 8075619, Kilian McGreal on 086 4075689, or Donal Rossiter on 087 2217718.