Carrickfergus Tree of Hope going strong a decade on

Rotarians with the support of a number of other organisations are again on duty at Tesco, Minorca Place, until Christmas Eve.

The club set up its first ‘Tree of Hope’ in 2009 and invited members of the public to make a donation to purchase a ribbon which would be used to decorate the tree.

The funds raised would be used to support organisations which provide a valuable service to the local community.

Mary Sinnamon, of Carrick Rotary, said: “Since 2009 just under £90,000 has been raised for local groups. That is a huge manifestation of the generosity of Carrickfergus Tesco shoppers.”

Action Cancer and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice have benefitted every year. Other organisations which have been supported over the years have included Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children, Diabetes UK, British Heart Foundation, Men’s Cancer and Alzheimer’s Association.

Assisting club members with collecting at the tree are members of the Carrickfergus branches of Action Cancer and Children’s Hospice support groups.

Mary added: “Those who collect at the tree comment on the generosity of Tesco shoppers and on the moving personal stories of many of the givers. Carrickfergus Rotary Club members are grateful to Tesco Management and their Community Champion Anne Ritchie for facilitating the Tree of Hope. In particular they are indebted to Tesco shoppers for their generous giving for the benefit of others in the community.”