Birr Gaelscoil hosts fundraiser for Dóchas

Pupils in Gaelscoil na Laochra in Birr put on their creative hats once again last week in aid of Dóchas Offaly Cancer Support Service.

The fundraiser selected by the school was a Spring/Easter bonnet competition, which resulted in bonnets of all styles and types being paraded around the school hall last week. It was clear from the range of bonnets on display that the artistic talent of students in the Birr school is thriving.

The task of choosing winners went to Sandra and Mary from the Dóchas Centre. Pupils and their families donated to Dóchas and the school was delighted to hand over all funds raised on the day.

Principal Niamh Uí Chléirigh spoke of how vital it is to build "citizenship skills and social responsibilty in our young people" and added that by hosting charity events in Birr Gaelscoil and inviting organisations such as Dóchas to speak with pupils "they become aware of the vital services places like the Dóchas Centre provide."

The Principal also expressed the hope that the generous contribution from the school will help the Dóchas Centre "in some small way" in the vital services they provide to cancer patients and their families.