November is the month for I WA‘ Angels’ fund raiser
LAST week saw the launch of one the major fundraising campaigns for the Irish Wheelchair Association, nationally and locally, as the Angels hit the streets.
Thursday and Friday were the main selling days for the volunteers with their selection of Angels products which include Children’s Fun Packs and Angels Christmas Baubles, as well as the new packaway-shopping bags!
Mayor of Drogheda Frank Godfrey was on hand at the Mayoralty Street headquarters to launch the month-long campaign, which raises vital funds for members in Co Louth.
“The services here are second to none, and I want to pay tribute to the staff here, especially Claire (McLoughlin) and Nicola (McDonnell), and wish Geraldine Lennon who did great work here for years a speedy recovery from her illness,” he said to gathered guests and members. “Centres like this can’t survive on government grants and rely on the generosity of the public to support them.”
Claire, who is manager of the local branch, agreed with his words.
“This is a national campaign for the 20,000 members in the country, which does raise the profile, but we will need every cent we receive here in Drogheda for our programmes and ongoing renovations,” she explained. “The Angel products are available in shops and at the branch throughout November, and they have added new tree baubles with nurses and gardai on them, and they have proved so popular over the years, people have started collecting them!”
The centre is always looking to update their programmes, which are specifically tailored to the needs of the members, and based on what activities they would like to do,
“For instance, we have a new class starting this week, to replace the kettle bells for a bit of variety,” explains Nicola, who heads up the successful Warriors on Wheels group. “Boxercise will be starting on Wednesday and anyone interested can come along before the class between 6pm and 7pm and have a cup of tea and a chat to find out more. We’re all very friendly, and welcome new members at any time.”
The Angel Pins and Car Air Fresheners are just €2, the pack of 10 Christmas Cards is a snip at €6, the individual Christmas Tree Baubles are €5 each, but the pack of three is a bargain at just €10 and the very handy foldable shopping bag is €4.There are many ways that you can assist with the Angels Campaign this November. IWA and their Fundraising Team will be supporting businesses, colleges, schools and other local organisations with Angel’s events, raffles and bake sales.”If you would like to support the Angels Campaign or arrange an event contact Claire Mc Loughlin on 041 9846614 or email Claire.mcloughlin@iwa.ie.