The Rotary Club of Wexford proudly announces the successful completion of its Rotary Tree of Remembrance project, a heartfelt initiative launched on December 9th to support local charities and provide a space for remembrance during the Christmas season.
The project, which ran until December 22nd on the quay, offered members of the public a unique opportunity to remember loved ones. Participants placed yellow (lost loved one) and purple ribbons (lost children) with a name or message on the Remembrance tree, contributing donations to support the Hope Cancer Support Centre, Wexford Marine Watch, and the Rotary Foundation. Additionally, the initiative raised awareness for the Cuan Aingeal support group, an organisation dedicated to providing comfort and support to bereaved parents and families who have lost a child.
Through the generosity of the Wexford community, the project raised a remarkable €15,098.
After covering the expenses for setting up the tree, a total of €4,400 was allocated to each charity. This achievement was made possible thanks to the support of Wexford County Council, our main sponsors Cleary Doyle, Whitford House Hotel, Wexford Bus, Distilled.ie, South East radio and numerous other supporters.
On January 22nd, during a special Rotary lunch at the Riverbank House Hotel, cheques of €4,400 were presented to representatives of Wexford Marine Watch and the Hope Cancer Support Centre. Natasha Hughes, President of the Rotary Club of Wexford expressed gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked Niall Reck, the Rotary fundraising chair, all Rotarians, sponsors, and the local community for their overwhelming support both online and in person.
Paul Brown, Managing Director of the hope Cancer support centre stated “The Hope Cancer Support Centre , which provides support for the people of Wexford who have been diagnosed with cancer or for those affected by that diagnosis , was delighted to accept a very generous cheque for €4,400 which was raised by the Wexford Rotary club. The Hope Centre is very appreciative to all those who donated money at the Tree of Remembrance in December 2023”.
The project not only served as a successful fundraiser but also as an emotional journey for many, offering a moment of reflection and remembrance for lost loved ones. The Rotary Club of Wexford is committed to continuing this tradition, hoping to bring the Tree of Remembrance project to the community in future years.
“We are deeply moved by the support and love shown by the people of Wexford,” said Fundraising Chair, Niall Reck “This project has not only helped us raise funds for crucial local causes but has also brought our community together in a meaningful and poignant way.”
“We are honoured to be a beneficiary of this wonderful Wexford Rotary Club initiative.” said a representative from Wexford MarineWatch ” Wexford MarineWatch does not receive any public funding to support the vital service the organisation provides and this donation will go directly to help save lives in Wexford.”
The photos of the Rotary Tree of Remembrance Wexford 2023 event are available for viewing below.