Rape Crisis Centre launches fund drive

‘Most Inspirational Woman’ may help Rape Crisis Centre fund drive

Áine Ryan

IDENTIFYING Mayo’s Most Inspirational Woman will help ensure the future of the county’s Rape Crisis Centre in Castlebar, which needs urgent repair due to storm damage.
A fundraising dinner will be held on Nollaig na mBan (January 6) in the TF Royal Hotel, celebrating women and announcing the unique award.  
For the last 20 years, Mayo Rape Crisis Centre (MRCC) has provided services for women from all over the county who have experienced sexual violence. During the last year, MRCC has extended these services to male victims and survivors of sexual violence.
“The MRCC building in Castlebar is a truly essential space for those who turn up weekly to work through difficult histories and who so deserve the safety and comfort that the centre offers them. Sadly it is currently a health hazard, as last year’s storms caused damage and exposed a pre-existing structural problem. [This] has resulted in the service, which is already decimated by cuts to its core funding, being left with the stressful task of trying to pay for repairs,” said Loretta McDonagh, Acting Director.
Mayo’s Most Inspirational Woman may be nominated by anyone aged over 18 years who submits a 200-word or less citation. Nominations may be sent to the centre or through the private messages on the MRCC Facebook page. The Nollaig na mBan event will include a three-course dinner, music and spot prizes, as well as an address by a keynote speaker and the award ceremony. Tickets are on sale at the TF Royal Hotel reception for the dinner.