The annual Sean Loughran Charity Tractor Run took place recently in Collon in memory of the Glasallen farmer who died from a sudden heart attack on 8th February at the age of 56.
After Sean’s death his friends in the local farming community got together to organise a tractor run in his memory and to raise funds for the Irish Heart Foundation. They have been holding the event ever since, raising funds for different charities every year and this year’s run was for the mental health charity, SOSAD.
Receiving the cheque from the Organising Committee, Marie Kennedy of SOSAD expressed her sincere thanks to all involved in organising this year’s event which raised €5,500 for SOSAD.
“Without events like this SOSAD could not provide the services we do throughout our six offices based in Louth x 2, Meath, Cavan, Monaghan and Laois from which we provide our services ” Marie said.
“We receive very little funding from the Government and HSE so we rely very heavily on the generosity of the public, donations, fundraising events, corporate sponsorship and once-off grants. This funding is used to maintain our offices, services and staff.
“SOSAD (Save our Sons & Daughters) offers support and services to people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harming, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety, or if you simply need to talk.
“If you want to talk, we are here to listen. You can message us, call us, or call into our office. We are a mental health charity that provides support and services free of charge to anyone who is struggling with depression, bereavement, stress, anxiety suicidal ideation, self-harming, or if you simply want to talk.
“We aim to provide care and support through life’s challenges, through a person-centred, professional approach. Last year over the six SOSAD offices we facilitated and helped over 5,000 clients. We have approximately 400 counsellors that give their time free of charge to help our clients along what is sometimes a very difficult journey.
“Our helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. No matter what time of the day or night we are here, whether you need help yourself, or you are concerned about someone close to you.
“Our helpline is manned by trained volunteers who can listen, give you information on other services, or even just have a chat in an understanding and non-judgmental space. If you ring the SOSAD helpline 1800 901 909 you can then be referred on to attend counselling with our service.
If you would like to make a donation to SOSAD, please go to www.sosadireland.ie/donate
