Ballinahown native and Irish Paralympic gold medalist Mark Rohan, along with children from Ballinahown NS, launching the 'Hang a Heart' campaign

Mark rohan launches festive craft initiative to help homeless

Paralympic hero Mark Rohan has launched a new local craft initiative which will help to benefit homeless people in the Midlands.

Ballinahown Eco-Craft Village is sharing the festive spirit by inviting visitors to ‘Hang a Heart’ in aid of the Midlands Simon Community on December 14 and 21.

Visitors to the village will have the opportunity to make a monetary donation of their choice and in exchange they will receive a handmade red woollen heart.

This can be taken home for the Christmas Tree, given as a gift to someone, or hung on the community's Christmas tree.

Most importantly, all proceeds from the 'Hang a Heart' campaign are going directly to those in the region who experience homelessness.

The gorgeous hearts are individually made by local designers who retail their work at the village, and are made from upcycled materials, keeping with the ethos of the village. The craft makers will also be on hand to help those who would like to create their own heart decorations.

Fun family days are expected on December 14 and 21, with opportunities to visit Santa at his Grotto, explore Celtic Roots Studio, visit Core crafted design studio, or relax in Ballinahown's in Vintage Tea Rooms and Receive a free Tea/Coffee/Hot Chocolate when you purchase €50 of gifts or products.

There will also be demonstrations on making eco-friendly and upcycled Christmas decorations.

Speaking about the 'Hang a Heart' charity initiative, Helen Conneely, Spokesperson for Ballinahown Eco Craft Village and supporter to the Simon Community, said: 'This time of year so many people are looking forward to spending time with family for Christmas. We cannot forget, there are so many people who have no homes to go too. This is why we created and support the ‘Hang a Heart’ campaign for such a worthy charity.'

For further details on Christmas at Ballinahown Eco Craft Village log onto www.ballinahowncraftvillage.com