SUNSHINE House, based in Balbriggan, has been synonymous with providing summer holidays for underprivileged children from the greater Dublin area for many years.
The St Vincent de Paul’s Sunshine Fund is calling on all fun-loving and energetic people to consider becoming part of a vibrant like-minded team of 15-20 volunteers for 2014.
These volunteers will provide an unforgettable week-long holiday for 80-100 nominated children, aged 7-11.
During this fun packed holiday the volunteers and children will participate in a number of activities including football matches, sports days, beach activities, swimming, arts and crafts, talent shows shopping trips, treasure hunts and much more.
Children and volunteers will stay in SVP’s Sunshine House which is a purpose built holiday complex in the coastal town of Balbriggan.
The Sunshine Fund has been hosting these holidays for over 75 years and over 100,000 children have passed through its doors since it opened.
The Sunshine Fund is now calling on people to apply online for the 2014 holiday season which begins in late May and continues until early September. It will consist of 14 separate fun-filled weeks.
Brendan Duffy, President of the Sunshine Fund, said that as a result of the economic downturn, everyone is feeling the pinch, but some are affected much more than others.
“Every summer, our team of volunteers provides much-needed holidays to over 1,200 children,
? stated Mr Duffy.
“For some children, this will be the only holiday they’ll get this year. For others, it’s a short respite from difficult social circumstances. For all of them, however, it’s a chance to make friends, play, sing and dance in a happy, safe and fun-filled environment.
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Volunteer Edel O Donoghue said volunteering not only means a week filled with laughter, fun and games but also the feeling that you could be providing a child with a holiday that they may remember for years to come.
“It allows you to engage with likeminded volunteers of all ages, not only for a week but throughout the year preparing to deliver an action packed holiday for very lucky children,
? she stated.
“I couldn’t recommend volunteering for a week with the Sunshine Fund enough if you like going to the beach every day, cheering on your football or basketball team and rocking out to discos every night.
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First time volunteers Niall O’Connor and Colin Caverly also spoke highly of their involvement in the programme.
“This was my first year at Sunshine and I can definitely say that it was one of the most worthwhile experiences of my life,
? said Mr O’Connor.
“It was great seeing the kids coming out of themselves and having a great time down in Sunshine.
“I enjoyed it so much I volunteered to go down a second week as soon as I got home. I’d definitely recommend Sunshine as a place to volunteer.
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Mr Caverly said:
“Sunshine House is one of the best things I’ve ever done. The difference you make to these children’s lives is just so amazing you never want to leave.
“This was my first year – they couldn’t get me to leave for the whole summer, and I can’t wait to go back.
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He added:
“One of the easiest and most fun ways of giving back you could find – something everyone should do.
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For more information and to submit an application form, visit www.sunshinefund.ie