Christmas appeal launched

Annual Christmas fuel and toy appeal launched


Neill O’Neill

IN the midst of an unprecedented cold start to Winter, and with Christmas just around the corner, Westport Town Councillor Martin Keane is once again launching his well-known pre-Christmas appeals for fuel and toys.
Renowned for his campaigning on behalf of the old and young of Westport in particular, Cllr Keane is appealing for all people to give what they can to his appeals this year, despite the economic hardship and icy weather that between them are currently berating the country.
“It is more important this year than ever before that we are successful in reaching our funding targets,” said Cllr Keane. “There are plenty of people who do not have access to a simple bag of coal, and they are relying on our appeal to bring them some warmth and comfort this Christmas. It may seem like I’m exaggerating this to some people but there are so many people in need of a quiet helping hand in our community.”
Collection buckets have already begun appearing in strategic location around Westport, and Cllr Keane and his army of helpers will soon be trawling the businesses and streets of the town, looking for any donation that people can spare. All the fuel is purchased from local suppliers, so the funds raised will be benefitting the community in more ways than one, and it is hoped, as in other years, that the appeal will be a success for 2010.
Cllr Keane also stressed that the entire process of distributing the fuel is done in strict confidence. Anyone who feels that they might need a little extra help to get them through the chilly weather is asked to contact Martin directly on 087 6736408.
Meanwhile, fresh back from his trip to the North Pole, where he had a meeting with Santa Claus (see picture), Cllr Keane is once again aiding Father Christmas in his stated aim to make sure that every child in Westport has something to smile about on Christmas morning. Donations (money or toys) are most appreciated and can be given directly to Cllr Keane or left in The Presbytery in Westport. Please note that only new toy and books can be accepted.
Again, this appeal is administered in strict confidence, and anyone wishing to discuss either of them, or volunteer their services to collect money, can contact Cllr Keane directly on the phone number above.