After just ten years in operation, well-known charity organisation, the Jack and Jill Foundation has assisted almost 1,000 Irish familes nationwide. And to mark this great achievement Gala stores nationwide have pledged to raise an impressive €250,000 for the charity.
Specialist nurse Mary Joe Guilfoyle who provides respite for children up to four years of age suffering from severe developmental delay and associated problems, has welcomed the funds which will enable her to cover hundreds of killometres a week visiting families across Kilkenny.
“The home nursing service makes a vital difference in the lives of many families in Ireland coping on a daily basis with the needs of their sick child,” she said.
“We have been able to help 25 families in the Kilkenny area alone, thanks to funds raised by the Jack and Jill Foundation. Since the number of families availing of our home nursing service has recently reached 1,000 there has never been a more critical time for these funds to be made available.
“And while the love and care parents give to their sick child is unconditional, it can also be exhausting in the extreme and the quarter of a million contributed by Gala will undoubtedly help us to ensure continued support for local families and babies that require our assistance,” she added.
The money raised will be used to assist a total of ten nurses who travel across the country to deliver their specialist respite services.
Gala’s €250,000 donation marks the largest ever private donation made to the Jack and Jill Foundation. Gala which has 200 stores nationwide will raise the funds through a number of initiatives including a Gala fundraising ‘drive’ later in the year. “This year, Gala celebrates its 10th year in business and we felt that there was no better time to give back to the communities that have supported us throughout the years. “ said Mr Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala.
“It’s a testament to the amazing work of the foundation that they have supported 1,000 families and we hope that Gala’s donation will make a difference and ensure the foundation’s vital work in the future,” he added. If you would like to play your part you can purchase a €2 pin in any Gala store and help raise much needed funds for the Jack and Jill Foundation.
