Fundraising continues with Bingo in the Barbican every Thursday for the next 12 months
When the Drogheda Special Olympics Club issued an appeal for funds to repair the roof of their clubhouse, students at Ballymakenny College Secondary School were not found wanting. They held a raffle and raised almost €1,500 in just four days.
Yesterday the raffle organisers presented a cheque for €1,489 to the Treasurer of Drogheda Special Olympics Jane Coyle.
Student representatives Sophie Murray and Jason Foly explained to Drogheda Life that on hearing the plight that the Special Olympics Club found themselves in they held a vote and everyone got behind the effort.
They organised the raffle, the prizes for which were provided by local businesses, and also a Fancy dress party over Halloween.
But the fundraising doesn’t stop there. They are also running Bingo Nights in the Barbican every Thursday evening for the next 12 months starting at 8.00 pm with books costing €20 for a double book and €15 for a single.
At yesterday’s Presentation ceremony in the school Jane Coyle told Drogheda Life described the horror they felt when the club opened their clubhouse which is in the former Slua Hall for the first time in over 18 months since lockdown.
The side hall of the clubhouse, which used to hold an FCA rifle range, was soaking wet thanks to a serious leak in the roof.
Jane revealed that the Club had received a quotation amounting to €23,000 to repair the roof but, because they had received no income for almost two years, they had no option but to launch than appeal to raise funds.
She expressed her sincere thanks to the Ballymakenny students for their continuing support.
Independent Councillor Paddy who has been highlighting the appeal, also praised the “phenomenal” efforts of the Ballymakenny students.
“The appeal has received a terrific response from young and old alike” he said. “I’m not surprised though because everyone knows someone involved with the Special Olympics and the wonderful services they provide.”
