The students in St Vincent's Secondary School are playing their part to support elderly and vulnerable citizens in their area during this difficult time by creating a Covid-19 information leaflet. 

Ahead of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s announcement on Thursday, March 12 that all schools, colleges and childcare facilities would close in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Transition Year students in the school approached their Home School Community Liaison Coordinator, Michelle Fitzgerald, and voiced their concerns for elderly residents in the locality. 

"The Transition Year girls were worried about the elderly and wanted to work on something positive which could help them during this unsettling time," Michelle said.

"We decided on a leaflet which could be circulated to members of the community with useful contact numbers and some top tips to help people stay positive. 

"For people who don't use the internet, they might be missing some contact numbers which could be useful, like the HSE National Helpline number, Cork City Council's number or Garda Station numbers so we thought it would be helpful to have them on the leaflet," she continued. 

After a huge collaborative effort, the students created a practical and well-designed leaflet, which will now have an even bigger impact than they originally envisaged. 

"Meals on Wheels have come on board and will be distributing the leaflet with their deliveries," Michelle said. 

"It’s fantastic and we’re very grateful because it means it will reach more people."