All-Star Limerick hurler lends a hand as homeless charity launches Christmas-wrapping shop
LIMERICK hurling star Aaron Gillane joined representatives of Focus Ireland in the Crescent Shopping Centre this Tuesday to wrap some gifts in aid of the nonprofit organisation ahead of the Christmas season.
“This is a very good cause to get involved with” began the four-time All-Ireland winner. "You see people struggling everyday and if you can help out in any way possible you would be foolish not to,” he added.
Looking ahead to Christmas, the 26-year-old All-Star hurler said he is looking forward to some much-needed and deserved time off after bringing home the Liam McCarthy cup over the summer.
“It’s such a busy schedule throughout the year that you don't really get to spend as much time with your family at home,
so to relax and switch off with them for a few days will be a nice thing.”
Focus Ireland's Fundraising & Marketing Executive, Aoife Sheehan, commented that the pop-up shop, which is open throughout December, helps Focus Ireland to continue its crucial work in confronting homelessness and improving lives.
Grainne O Rourke Marketing Manager of the Crescent Shopping Centre added: "In what has been a particularly difficult year for everyone, but especially for those experiencing homelessness this Christmas, the Crescent Shopping Centre is thrilled to be able to support Focus Ireland's fundraising efforts. We invite visitors to the Centre to make use of the Gift Wrapping Service, where donations will go to people in Limerick who are most in need."
In Limerick, Focus Ireland services supported nearly 300 households during 2021 who were homeless or at risk of losing their home.
A further 55 households were assisted to move out of homelessness.