Society celebrates 25th anniversary
THE Society for the Old and Underprivileged in Dundalk celebrates its 25th anniversary in the Derryhale Hotel.
There is much favourable comment for the organisation’s work in bringing help where it is most needed.
Dermot Ahern, Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, points out his department can’t make grants directly available to the society as all such funds are earmarked for capital projects or administration.
‘However, I will be doing everything possible to help them as I’m aware of the tremendous work undertaken in the last 25 years to target those most in need and to bring that help to their doorsteps.’
Other speakers include Seamus Byrne, chairman of Dundalk urban council and Fr Brian McGrath, administrator of St Joseph’s.
A cheque for £3,000 is presented to the society by Joan Kirk, secretary of the Dundalk branch of the Manchester Utd supporters’ club representing the proceeds of the club’s dinner attended by Ryan Giggs and Brian Kidd.
In turn, the society donates £1,500 to St Oliver’s, £500 to the Arch club, £600 to St. Joseph’s School, £250 to St Vincent’s School and £300 to H.O.P.E. Rehabcare.
‘Over the years, members have visited hundreds of families and assisted them in providing food, fuel, clothing and paying ESB bills,’ recalls society chairman, Eamon Flood.
He adds Christmas parcels is another project and 125 are delivered in 1997, while more energy and resources is being directed to children who have disabilities and senior citizens who feel neglected.
Mr Flood takes the opportunity to thank the society’s many benefactors, including the Sexton family of the Derryhale Hotel, and the Great Northern Brewery and Neil McCann of Fyffes, sponsors of the celebrations.