On Sunday 7th February the running community in Galway are gathering in their hundreds to show support for the devastated communities in Haiti. Runners, Walkers and children are all invited to give up an hour of their time to join in the scenic 6km route along the banks of the river Corrib. Starting at the NUIG grounds in Dangan at 10.30am this is pitched as a ‘no-frills’ event where 100% of the donations will go to a very deserving cause. The races are flexible and casual and will start every half hour from 10:30am to midday.
‘We wanted to do something quickly to raise funds without having to spend money – all we need is people to give their time and make a donation.’ says Bernard Duffy who is the driving force behind this fund-raising initiative. This particular Haiti fundraiser has a very local appeal as 100% of the funds will go towards a charity in Haiti where two Irish people work and are experiencing the real effects of this disaster first hand.
Gena Heraghty is from Westport, Co Mayo and and Kieran Rigney is from Banagher, Co Offaly. Both have worked with the charity ‘Our Little Brothers and Sisters’ for over 20 years in Haiti. Kieran, Gena and many other Irish volunteers have done tremendous work in the local hospital and orphanage in Haiti over the past two decades.
Kieran and Gena are now asking for help. The orphanage, which they help run, urgently needs food and water. Diesel is in very short supply. Without diesel for the generator, there is no electricity. Without electricity, there is no water. So no washing, no toilets, no drinking water – and darkness.
We can all help. Every euro makes a difference. Please note, children are especially welcome.
If you are unable to attend in Galway on Sunday 7th but would like to organize your own running event at a similar time please contact us at haiti@runireland.com and we will arrange for all funds raised to go directly to Kieran and Gena.