Two Laois students are calling on everyone to get active in aid of local homeless charity PATH.
Sadhbh Dunne and Cara Phelan, who are both fifth year students in Scoil Chriost Ri, are hoping to achieve the Pope John Paul II award this year.
That award involves doing a number of community and social tasks – something that is very difficult to do in the middle of a pandemic.
So, the pair came up with the idea of a virtual walk from Scoil Chriost Ri to Lourdes.
Teacher Ann Byrne said: “The Pope John Paul II students from Scoil Chriost Ri have supported PATH tirelessly over the years.
“Sadhbh Dunne and Cara Phelan have come up with a novel way for the 5th years and wider community to get their volunteer hours completed.
“Normally they would get an opportunity to go to Lourdes so instead they are launching a ‘Walk to Lourdes’ virtual campaign.
“It is 1,965km from Portlaoise to Lourdes so they are asking students, teachers and members of the public, as Lent begins to get out walking or running within your 5km limit and send your distance into the email walktolourdes1965@gmail.com
“Then if you would like, please donate something small to benefit the work of PATH: Portlaoise Action to Homeless; a group that supports both local families in need and the homeless in Dublin.
“We are delighted to have the support of our Bishop Denis Nulty and Fr David Vard as the girls hope to do something wonderful for others this Lent.
“Finally, please follow us on Instagram for regular updates on how near we are to Lourdes.
“For those of you who love a challenge you can aim to get there on your own or in a smaller family group.
“The data will be revealed at the end of every week during Lent on Instagram.”
Anyone wishing to donate, can do so below:
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