Youthreach in LOETB’s Portlaoise Further Education and Training Centre held a Christmas Market on December 8, raising over €2,500 for Pieta House in the process.
Students sold many handcrafted Christmas decorations and home baked goods.
From wooden reindeer, pyrography pieces, handmade soaps, crocheted hats, handmade jewellery, Christmas wreaths and logs and many plants there was plenty on offer for all.
The morning included free refreshments in the centre and Christmas music.
Anne Malone, Youthreach Co-ordinator, was delighted with the success of the market and highlighted the benefits of such events for learners in the centre.
“The whole preparation for the event and the market itself gave the students opportunities to put into practice many of the skills they are learning in the centre,” said Anne.
“IT skills, Art, Pyrography, Career Preparation, Communications, Teamwork, Entreprenurial Skills, Personal Effectiveness, Work Experience, Customer Service, Maths and Budgeting Skills are among the topics covered”.
Anne would like to thank the staff and learners for all their hard work to ensure the success of this great fundraiser.
She also thanked the following who gave generous donations and/or hampers: Dominic Dunne from METAC, Niall and Veronica Dunne Heat services, Calor Gas, CJ Sheerans Mountrath, Mulhall’s SuperValu, Hughes Pharmacy and Tess Whelan.
“I would also like to thank John Hosey and Alzbeta Bundova for the music they provided on the morning and to Antoinette Breen who donated a piece of art for the silent auction.”
Bernie Carroll, Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officer, with Pieta came to accept the cheque from Youthreach on Monday and praised all staff and students for their hard work.
Bernie spoke about the importance of such fundraising events for Pieta and thanked Anne, staff and students for their unbelievable donation.
