Buncrana’s Own Children in Need are hosting a family fun day to say thank you to the community for their support during the year.
The charity was set up last November by a committee led by chairperson Adrian McMyler. The launch took place during the hugely successful Strictly Come Dancing fundraiser in aid of the Good and New Cancer Bus at the end of last year.
The committee is made up of Adrian, Jacqueline Doherty, Mary Mullan, Caitlyn Crossan, Catherine Carlin, and Patricia Ferguson, with a lot of volunteers helping out wherever they can.
Speaking to Donegal Daily, Adrian explained that they’ve had a very successful year and would like to give back to the community with their spooktastic Fancy Dress Halloween Extravaganza on the 28th of October, between 3 pm to 6 pm at The Halfway House in Burnfoot.
“We’ve had great support and have held great fundraisers throughout the year. To date we have donated over €10,000 to families in need,” Adrian says.
The charity helps children who have long-term medical conditions. They assist their families financially and give children a much-needed boost by organising special hospital surprises.
“The hospital surprises run from nominations from the public, and we do up goodie bags for the kids. We take into account their age and the stuff that they like, and include their favourite sweets.”
Ronan and Sheryl McGrory from Munchies’ Sweet Shop in Buncrana stock just about every sweet treat imaginable, and help the charity with any sweet-toothed requests!
“We are also in the process of setting up a Siblings’ Club, to support children affected by sickness such as brothers and sisters of ill children.”
Buncrana’s Own Children in Need were also invited along to Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards, where they took part in a discussion alongside the Simon Community and Cycle Against Suicide.
“We also have a Lipsync Battle in the works for next summer, featuring a celebrity judge and commentator – but we’re keeping who it is under wraps for now!”
“I’d like to thank all our sponsors, people who have helped out, and the committee.”
When asked what inspired him to spearhead the charity, Adrian said: “I love charity work and helping out wherever I can. In the area there are a lot of people affected by illness, and we want to help. I believe that charity begins at home, and in the area there aren’t a lot of resources. We have a brilliant committee at Buncrana’s Own Children in Need.”
The charity also has a strong confidentiality policy regarding donations and the recipients.
To donate, you can go along to one of their fundraisers or you can get in touch through Facebook or email buncranasowncin@gmail.com .
To check out their event page for their Halloween Extravaganza, click here.
