Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting Ireland’s 500,000+ family carers, has commenced its national fundraising campaign, Heart of Gold, aimed at providing vital support to family carers in Westmeath.
With an estimated 8,877 family carers in Westmeath this campaign aims to recognise their invaluable contribution and raise vital funds.
Coinciding with National Carers Week, Heart of Gold takes place today, Thursday June 15 and Friday June 16. The purpose of this campaign is to not only to raise funds for Family Carers Ireland’s critical programs, supports and services, but to also raise awareness about the challenges facing family carers.
Supported by Horizon, the campaign encourages the public to support family carers by purchasing a Heart of Gold Pin from collectors, hosting a coffee morning, or simply donating on the Family Carers Ireland website www.familycarers.ie
“It’s crucial to bear in mind that, at some point, we will all know a family carer, be a family carer or need care ourselves. Sadly, many family carers face financial hardship and a constant battle to access vital services and have simply nowhere else left to turn. That is where Family Carers Ireland comes in.
“We are seeing unprecedented numbers seeking help. Last year, our National Freephone Careline team spoke to almost 5,000 family carers seeking support and information while our network of Carer Support Centres and staff had nearly 85,000 unique engagements with family carers. On top of this, we delivered approximately 4,400 hours of counselling to family carers and delivered vital training to hundreds of family carers across the country.
“To continue our work and reach more family carers who feel disconnected and alone, we genuinely rely on the support of the public. We’re asking local communities and businesses throughout Westmeath to please give what you can,” Elaine Galligan, Regional Support Manager, Family Carers Ireland, said.
For more information about the Heart of Gold campaign and how you can get involved, please visit https://familycarers.ie/get-involved/heart-of-gold.
