Irish Autism Action and Keith Duffy will launch a mobile phone recycling campaign in Kilkenny on Wednesday, July 7, as part of the ‘32 County Marathons Challenge ’.
With the help of BPI Telecom and the Expert group, Irish Autism Action is asking people in Kilkenny to donate their old mobile phones to raise money and awareness of autism in Ireland.
Long distance runners Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw will begin the 32 County Marathons challenge on Friday, July 2, in Longford from where they will go on to run 32 marathons in 32 counties in 32 consecutive days. The marathon will take place in Kilkenny on July 7. Kilkenny hurling stars, DJ Carey and Henry Shefflin will also take part in the Kilkenny marathon.
“Autism is a disability involving the development of the brain that affects people’s communication and social interaction skills,” said Kevin Whelan, CEO, Irish Autism Action.
“Mobile phones are one of the biggest communication devices around today, and by recycling them at your local Expert store you can help us be a voice for those who have none. Every €500 raised takes a child off the waiting list for education services.”
“People are becoming increasingly aware of autism and the needs of autistic people,” said Brian Egan, sales director, BPI Telecom.
“By getting behind this campaign and recycling old mobile phones we have a chance to show great community spirit. The money raised in each county stays in that county so everyone can benefit from this campaign.”
Irish Autism Action is a national charity providing a range of services to families affected by autism, as well as supporting 13 schools for children with autism across the country.
Irish Autism Action services in Kilkenny include St Patrick’s Special School; Saplings Kilkenny, Goresbridge; Kilkenny National Council for Special Education and Kilkenny Education Centre.
