Supporting the Black Santa Appeal
On their way to the pantomime at the MAC, Belfast, the pupils of St Ronan's School, Lurgan joined the Dean, the Bishop of Connor and Canon Nesbitt on the steps of Belfast to pose with Black Santa. (Image below).
The Dean, Canons and even our volunteers have been outside in the icy cold, rain and shine this week raising money to help fund over 200 charities through the Annual Black Santa Sit-Out Appeal. 100% of the funds raised go directly to local charities all across Northern Ireland, read some of the testimonials below to see how this appeal makes a difference:
"Over the past few years 'Black Santa' has been vital to us, supporting a number of diverse initiatives, [...] In total 1,140 children and young people directly benefited from [Young at Art's] important work, and all thanks to 'Black Santa'!"
~ Young at Art ~
"Black Santa enabled young people with complex disabilities to go surfing alongside their families. [...] Thanks to Black Santa for giving these young people an opportunity that many of us take for granted, the chance to have fun with your family at the beach!"
~ The Mae Murray Foundation ~
"Originally founded by two parents caring for their son and daughter ill with psychosis, CAUSE has gradually developed into a peer-led charity, run by carers for carers, working across Northern Ireland. [...] We cannot thank the Black Santa Sit-Out enough for its support, as it gives CAUSE the opportunity to empower, support and change the lives of those impacted by someone living with a complex and severe mental illness."
~ CAUSE ~
"We make all forms of art accessible to service users and staff in health and social care settings. These can: Develop self-confidence and esteem, Positively affect the culture of hospitals, Improve staff and patient relationships and morale, Strengthen hospital communities, Decrease social isolation, Enhance mental and physical health and well-being, Develop creativity in the work place, Improve sensory awareness and physical dexterity. The Sit-Out appeal donations to this work are essential […] This funding ensures that there are arts materials available to service users and that we are able to continue offering this invaluable service to all ages."
~ Arts Care ~
We need your help to continue this support, so please, stop by today to learn more about what the appeal is and donate.