Castleisland Macra Hands Over ‘Family Fortunes’ to Brú Columbanus

Castleisland Macra Club members handing over a cheque for €300 to Anne Maria O’Connor representing Brú Columbanus at Browne’s Bar, Castleisland. Included are from left: John Martin Carroll, fundraising event MC; Aoife O’Hanlon, club PRO; Maurice Roche, club treasurer; Gearóid O’Shea, club chairman; Ms. O’Connor and club member, Brian O’Donoghue.  ©Photograph: John Reidy

Castleisland District Macra Club members would like to thank everyone who supported their fundraising, ‘Family Fortunes’ event last May.

Thanks to Browne’s Bar and to all the Macra clubs in Kerry who took part and to everyone who supported the night and who donated spot prizes.

“We also wish to thank John Martin Carroll for being a great M.C. for the show,” said PRO Aoife O’Hanlon.

New Members Welcome

“The night was enjoyed by all and the money raised was presented to Brú Columbus representative Anne Maria O’Connor back at Browne’s Bar during the week.

“We welcome new members any time of the year and anyone thinking of joining us will find us on Facebook castleisland district macra.

“You can also ring: 087 26 48 641 and we’d be delighted to hear from you,” said Aoife in conclusion.

About Brú Columbanus

As well as gratefully accepting the cheque from the Macra club members, Anne Maria o’Connor also provided a run-down on the work done and the services provided by Brú Columbanus.

“Brú Columbanus provides accommodation free of charge to the relatives of seriously ill patients in Cork Hospitals and the Hospice, especially relatives of sick children,” Anne Marie explained.

“We are conveniently located near the Cork University Hospital – but we provide accommodation to all the hospitals in Cork.

Worry Stricken Families

“When families are stricken with worry for a loved one who is seriously ill, Brú Columbanus offers a haven where families can spend time while being close to the hospital or hospice.
“Each day, families in need of accommodation are referred to ‘Brú’ by the clinical nurse manager, staff nurse or social worker.

“It is not possible to just pick up the phone and book a room- we work very closely with the various hospitals throughout Cork.

Over 70 Volunteers
Bru Columbanus provides 26 en suite family rooms with supporting kitchens and lounges where families can meet others who are in a similar situation and can lend support and understanding to each other.

“Bru Columbanus operates with a minimum possible number of paid staff  and a team of over 70 volunteers.

“The volunteers play a vital role in the running of the project. At 10am each morning the team arrives to clean the rooms after the guests leave.

Help With Fundraising

“They also cover reception in the afternoon and evenings. Volunteers also help with fundraising.
“We are a small independent charity completely reliant on donations and fundraising initiatives to cover the running costs of the house – which are kept to a minimum,” Anne Marie concluded.

More information on Brú Columbanus

You’ll find Brú Columbanus on Facebook and, for more information, their website can be accessed with a click on the link here: https://www.brucolumbanus.com/how-to-help/

Contact The  Maine Valley Post on: 087 23 59 467 / jreidy@mainevalleypost.com 

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