01/10/2009

Kids To 'Get Hands Dirty' For Charity

Northern Ireland children have been urged to get their 'hands dirty' for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Youngsters from St Oliver Plunkett School helped the charity announce a last call to schools and youth groups across NI to sign up for its activity fundraisers that will raise much needed funds.

Shannon McMenamy from the Belfast school, is pictured here, helping promote the charity fundraiser.

With a day to go until the registration deadline, Marie Curie Cancer Care are inviting children to muck-in for charity and have a go at growing their own daffodils – maybe in the classroom (Mini Pots of Care) or in the school's grounds (Fields of Hope).

Alec Barclay, Fundraising Manager for Marie Curie Cancer Care in Northern Ireland, said: "Funds raised through campaigns such as 'Fields of Hope' and 'Mini Pots of Care' help Marie Curie Nurses in Northern Ireland provide 75,000 hours of free, home nursing care to patients each year.

"Last year, the initiatives generated more than £72,000 here with schools and groups participating in the programmes across Northern Ireland. As a result we were able to educate more children and their local communities about the work the charity does.

"This year we want to reach even more people and raise vital funds, so we would urge teachers and community leaders to register now before the deadline this Friday."

Ciaran Headley, Principal at St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, commented: "This is our third year taking part in both activities. Each year the children thoroughly enjoy planting their daffodil bulbs and look forward to caring for them throughout the winter.

"By taking part in this simple but fun exercise, the whole school and the pupil's families have been able to learn about the fantastic work of the Marie Curie Nurses caring for people in our community."

Free detailed lesson plans supporting Key Stages 1 and 2 of the National Curriculum as well as activity resources for youth groups are available to download from the website.

Teachers and leaders need to register for the activity by October 2, 2009 at www.mariecurie.org.uk or by calling 08700340040.

(GK/BMcC)

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