A small group of inspirational Foxford volunteers have moved one step closer to realising their dream of constructing a purpose built Alzheimer’s day care centre in the town.
Frances Casey became a founding member of the Foxford and District Alzheimer’s Trust just over two years ago after seeing her own father struck by vascular dementia.
She told the Mayo Advertiser yesterday that she was absolutely thrilled with the news that Mayo County Council have now granted planning permission for the project.
She said the project is very close to the hearts of all of the volunteers at the trust because most of them got involved because their own loveds ones and family members were affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Their experiences prompted them to open, manage, and staff a day care centre, without any State funding, to support similarly affected individuals and their families throughout east Mayo.
The centre is currently located in the old boys’ school. However, a purpose built facility is required to accomodate the growing numbers attending the service.
The new centre, which is expected to cost in the region of €250,000, will be located at a site donated to the trust by Mayo County Council on Admiral Brown Road and a major fundraising drive is now under way.
Today (Friday ), the trust is opening a new shop, called Memories, in Foxford, and any revenue generated will support the building fund.
Ms Casey said the day care centre is a hugely valuable community project.
“My father was the first client of the day care centre two years ago,” she explained. “Without that day care centre, my dad would have had to enter care prematurely.
“The centre is a lifeline, not only for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s but also for their carers. The centre is a very social, very interactive space where there is support and a listening ear.”
Ms Casey said they are hoping to break ground on the building project next spring.
“We have a long way to go but we are very hopeful that we would be in that position by spring,” she outlined. “We have to thank the supporters and volunteers, Mayo County Council for the donation of the site, and we also received a sizeable donation from a local community group earlier this year.”
To get involved or support the trust, contact [email protected].
