83-year-old Frank hits the seas for Cork charity fundraiser

A Cork octogenarian is among group of people taking part in fundraising efforts for a Cork charity working in partnership with local communities in Kenya.

Frank Fitzgibbon, an 83-year-old grandfather from Fountainstown, is just one of the many people who endured cold seas ahead of ‘Giving Tuesday’, in a bid to raise funds for the Brighter Communities Worldwide (BCW) charity.

Mr Fitzgibbon took to the water in Fountainstown on Sunday and said the longer he stayed in the sea the more money he would raise for the Cobh based charity.

He said that he has been a long-time fan of the organisation, describing it as “a small charity with a huge heart.”

“Giving Tuesday is the biggest online opportunity in the year to raise vital funds and avail of bonus funds through Global Giving,” he said.

“The great thing is that the funds are matched so what we raise is automatically doubled, which is just fantastic.

“Every single donation that is given, no matter what size, really makes a difference.”

Ultra-marathon runner, Eoin Keith will also contribute to the efforts by spending today running 50km worth of circuits around Cobh, departing from the BCW office at 9.30am.

“I have ‘old man knees’ but I can run marathons all day long,” he said.

“I’ve known co-founder of BCW, Maria Kidney forever; I was best friends with her brother, and I have always been impressed with Maria’s commitment to human rights and dedication to improve the lives of others and shining a light on inequality.

“When she asked me if I could do something to help BCW, I didn’t hesitate.

“So, I am asking people to give even a little, as whatever they give is automatically doubled [today] only.”

Events taking place today include a 7.30am sunrise walk in Cobh, followed by teas and coffees at Sea Salt Cafe, and a zoom call with the BCW team at 10am.

Bucket donation collection points will be open all-day at centra in Cobh, Supervalu in Midleton and at the BCW office, which will also have handmade Kenyan Christmas crafts on sale.

To donate online visit: https://www.brightercommunities.org/