Published: Wednesday, 10th February, 2010 5:15pm

Coosan woman to hold jumble sale for victims of Haiti earthquake

A Coosan woman who has organised a jumble sale to raise money for the victims of the Haiti earthquake is appealing for donations from the public to make the sale a success.

Brenda Johnston decided to organise an old fashioned jumble sale as a good way to fundraise for victims of the disaster after witnessing the total devastation of what unfolded before our eyes just a few short weeks ago.

"I have three children of my own and like so many others couldn't help being touched as I watched the pictures on television. Just to think what these people must be going through is so hard for us here in Ireland. All I wanted to do was to try and help these people in anyway I could, but like so many I felt completely overwhelmed by the magnitude of the problem which left me wondering how or what could I do that would make a difference," said Brenda.

She added: "After chatting to some of my family and friends I decided to try and organize an old type jumble sale, something I grew up with but don't see too many around these days, I suppose the car boot sales have taken their place. I contacted some local schools and businesses and have been delighted with the response to date and am looking for the people of Athlone to turn up in numbers and support this worthwhile cause."

Brenda explained that they are looking for good condition toys, books, CDs, DVDs, console games, household items, jewellery, ornaments and general bric a brac, but no clothes. The jumble sale will be held in The Céile, a warehouse opposite Athlone Leisure World, on Saturday, February 27, from 1pm to 5pm. Brenda this week thanked everyone who helped in the organisation of the fundraiser, pointing out that they had no overheads as the use of the warehouse had been donated, as had tables and an outlet in Golden Island Shopping Centre to collect items ahead of the jumble sale.

The group will be collecting from local schools this Friday and on Saturday, February 20, and Sunday 21, they will be collecting items in Golden Island Shopping Centre from 12pm to 6pm on the Saturday and from 3pm to 6pm on the Sunday. If you would like to donate or help in anyway please contact Brenda Johnston on 086 3558028.