Mayor calls for volunteers to support Charity Flag Day

by Gráinne Connolly

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Maolíosa McHugh, will be holding a special St Patrick’s flag day in aid of his charity fund AWARE and is appealing for your help.

Volunteers are being asked to give just a couple of hours of their time to support a fantastic cause and assist with the collection, which will be taking place at various locations throughout the city from 12noon – 4pm on March 17th.

Councillor McHugh has been actively working to raise awareness for the charity, which is the leading support network for those suffering from depression and bi-polar disorder.

“I selected AWARE as my chosen charity for the year as the lack of local mental health support is such a significant issue throughout local communities – rural and urban - at the moment.

“AWARE are doing a fantastic job providing advice and assistance where it’s most needed but they are facing a major challenge in terms of reaching the volume of people who need their support.

"They really need additional resources and by giving up a couple of hours you can help to generate some much needed funding to support their work. Every penny makes a difference and could benefit someone you know.”

Volunteers must be over 16 years of age and anyone taking part will be required to give up just two hours of their time from 12pm to 2pm or 2pm to 4pm to collect donations.

Officials from the charity and the Mayor’s office will also be available to sign off any hours volunteered if required for those participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Pope John Paul Award or any other similar award schemes.

AWARE is the national depression charity for Northern Ireland and the only charity working exclusively for people with depression and bipolar disorder.

Anyone wishing to volunteer should contact Karen Henderson, Mayoral & Member Services Officer, on 02871376527 or email karen.henderson@derrystrabane.com