Charity Week Raises Much Needed Funds
Mar
THE SU’s annual Charity Week has raised thousands for charity. Though the exact amount raised has yet to be announced, it is expected the figure of €10,000 raised last year will be exceeded.
The sunny week’s events, which took place from 28 February to 3 March, included sponsored activities including head shaves, hair dying, bungee jumps and many more. The spectacles drew hundreds to the SU Courtyard and campus clubs.
The SU has been commended by local Gardaí and the University on the success of the week, despite some grievances from residents in the Castletroy area. The University, An Garda Síochána and Limerick County Council supported the SU in focusing the emphasis of Charity Week on worthy fundraising activities.
UL President, Professor Don Barry has applauded the fundraising goals the SU has set for Charity Week and the focus on activities that raise much-needed funds for charity.
Superintendent O’Brien of Henry Street Garda Station pledged to work closely with student representatives and residents to ensure the week was a success.
The Superintendent has voiced his happiness about the continuation of last year's initiative whereby student liaison officers worked closely with students and residents. “The Meitheal na Mac Léinn (Student Patrols) initiative which was commenced in 2010 was a great help to the Garda and the Garda reserve last year during Charity Week.”
Reports from the estates have been mostly positive with some isolated incidents instigated by a small cohort. One student involved in the patrols spoke of a resident bringing sandwiches to the patrols and thanking them for their litter pick ups, which continued until 4am each night.
A text system was also put in place whereby residents could send a text to a computer which would then redistribute the message directly to all student patrollers. “The system allows our student patrols to respond quickly and effectively to resident complaints,” said Ruán Dillon McLoughlin, SU President.
This year’s charities are The First Tee, Console, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and The Mid-Western Cancer Foundation.
