Runners at the ready! Childline volunteers in Mayo are calling on individuals, families, clubs and communities across the county to join them this summer in conquering the ‘Way to 5K’ challenge and help make a vital difference in children’s lives.
The team, who give of their free time every week to listen to children and young people from the service’s Castlebar unit, are keen to get as many people as possible out walking, jogging, running or wheeling their way to 5K on Saturday July 31st, to help raise funds for the service.
Childline receives up to 800 online contacts, calls and texts every day from children and young people in Mayo and across Ireland who seek support or a listening ear. The service is free, confidential and non-judgmental and there to listen 24 hours a day, every day.
ISPCC Childline Regional Supervisor, Mary Nolan-Durkan, said: "Every day and night, children and young people in Mayo and across Ireland turn to Childline. They may be experiencing bullying, challenges in friendships or relationships, tensions at home or mental health difficulties. With thanks to our wonderful volunteers, Childline is always there to listen.
"Childline needs to be here for every child and young person in Ireland, always. The service, however, relies on donations for 90 per cent of the funding which makes this possible. Our ability to fundraise has been significantly impacted by the restrictions associated with the Covid-19 pandemic.
"To help make sure no child or young person has to face their challenges alone, our Childline volunteers are stepping up this August Bank Holiday weekend and taking on a 5K challenge. Will you join them?
"Whether you choose to conquer your ‘Childline Way to 5K’ course by running, jogging, walking or wheeling, you’ll be joining in a nationwide community of Childline supporters helping to make a difference for children. You will help to make sure they always have somewhere they can turn."
People of all ages and sporting abilities are invited to join Childline volunteers in Mayo and across Ireland in taking on the virtual Childline ‘Way to 5K’ event on Saturday July 31 or at any point over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Registrations are now being taken at https://www.popupraces.ie/race/childline-5k-virtual-run/. Any child or young person in Ireland can contact Childline at any time by chatting online at Childline.ie, calling (1800 ) 666666 or texting to 50101.
