Gaelscoil Faithleann’s true spirit of Christmas

THE Gaelscoil Faithleann Parent’s Council recently linked up for the fifth year running with the St Vincent de Paul’s Giving Appeal – The Giving Tree – to give a local family in need a Christmas to remember.

Parents and children got involved, with each family taking a ‘tag’ which listed a person and age group, before a new present was brought to the child that had been tagged.

“The response to the appeal again this year was wonderful,” said Parents’ Council Chairperson Mary Carroll.

“It was a huge success and, something more special than the huge supply of toys and gifts gathered for local families in need, the pupils involved learned the gift of giving and saw how a small gesture can make a huge difference in other’s lives.

“We originally got involved with this appeal as we thought it was a great opportunity for children to help others in a practical way.

“Many of us have so much that we can sometimes forget there is another world out there, where people are not as well off as us. This appeal is really great as we can see children learn about the gift of giving – which is the true meaning of Christmas.”

Mary added that the Gaelscoil’s gesture will have added great light for many in the local area.

“By everyone’s generosity in the Gaelscoil, they have made Christmas that little bit brighter for children and families who are struggling in our community, and they have also taken the true meaning of the season into their hearts,” Mary added.

The local branch of St Vincent de Paul went on to thank all the pupils and staff of the Gaelscoil and said they look forward to more collaboration into the future.

Back row from left: (right) Saorla NíMhóráin, Gaelscoil Faithleann with her school friends at the ‘tree of giving’ presentation on behalf of the Parents Association to St Vincent de Paul. Mary O’Carroll, Parents Association and representatives from St Vincent de Paul,Dan McAuliffe andJackie Foley.