Management and staff at Garvey’s SuperValu, Castleisland have taken an initiative where school children and older students are invited to come in from the cold and wet and stay safe during the winter months in particular.
Children Safe and Warm
A Facebook message from the Castleisland link of the supermarket chain reads as follows:
“Dear parents, as winter approaches and the evenings get darker earlier, we all want to know our children are safe and warm.
“Could you let your children know that if they miss a bus or need to use our phone, they can pop into us while they’re waiting to be picked up.
Best regards from Seamus and all the staff in Garvey’s.”
Waiting for Lift Home
“The idea was sparked by the sight of students hanging around outside the building here after school and maybe waiting for a parent or guardian to pick them up.
“As we all know anything can happen to delay the person picking them up and that creates its own stress and worry – and we can help with that,” said branch manager, Seamus O’Connor.
Community Service
“We got a great reaction from many parents but we feel it’s no big deal for us and it’s just a matter of Garvey’s giving back to the community which supports us so well.
“We would all like to think that our children would be safe and looked after in the case where their drive home is delayed for any number of unforeseen reasons.
Safe and Sound
“We’re advising parents to let their children know that they can come in here and sit down in our coffee shop area and stay dry and safe until their transport home arrives.
There is no obligation on them to buy anything – we just want to make sure they’re safe and sound,” said Mr. O’Connor.
A Sample of Reactions
“That’s a wonderful kind thing to do Garveys come up trumps again.”
“Omg that’s fantastic thank you so much.”
“Thoughtful gesture. Very much appreciated. Thanks to all in Garvey’s.”
“Very good what a fantastic thing you are doing very commendable.”
“A wonderful thing to do for the community! Well done SuperValu.”
