Call to ‘lace up and step out’ for Cork charity walk

Communities across Cork have been encouraged to “lace up and step out” this September in support of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.

The nationwide ‘Walk 100km in September’ fundraising campaign officially launches this month.

Life Pharmacy, part of the Uniphar Group, teams across the country are leading the campaign, with the goal of raising €100,000 to fund 5,556 hours of in-home nursing care.

In Cork alone, 57 families are currently receiving support from the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, with 384 families having benefited since the charity was established in 1997.

VITAL CARE

Every €18 raised provides one hour of vital home nursing care for children with severe learning disabilities often associated with complex medical needs.

Local Life Pharmacies across Cork, who will be taking part in sponsored walks throughout the month, are inviting customers and communities to get behind the cause, by donating, walking, or both.

Mairead Reen, the chairperson of Life Pharmacy, said that the campaign “is proof of what we can achieve when we walk together for a common cause”.

She said: “We’re immensely proud to partner with the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation once again, and I encourage everyone in Cork to get involved.

“Whether it’s one step or one donation, every action matters. Together, we can turn kilometres into care for families who need it most.”

Deirdre Walsh, CEO of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, added: “We’re so pleased to be partnering once again with our wonderful friends at Life Pharmacy for another inspiring community-driven fundraiser.

“This month, we’re encouraging all the pharmacies and their customers across the country to register and take part in the ‘Walk 100km in September’ challenge, with the goal of raising €100,000 in vital funds for Jack and Jill families nationwide.

“This support will make a real difference helping to fund 5,556 hours of in-home nursing care for the 451 families currently under our wing.

“We can’t wait to see communities coming together in support of local families throughout September.”

Since its founding in 1997, the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation has supported more than 3,100 families nationwide.