IWA walk raises over €10,000

The Athlone branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association has reinvented itself post-Covid and is back supporting people with disabilities from Athlone and surrounding areas.

The voluntary branch has been in operation for 35 years and has been renowned for organising activities and trips for service users and also supporting the Athlone IWA Centre in any way they can. Over the years the branch has arranged trips to Wales, Knock, Lough Key Forest Park, etc. Many people have volunteered their time and have since retired and are owed a great deal of thanks for their commitment.

New Chairperson Cllr Frankie Keena sincerely thanked the outgoing officer board and committee for their marvellous work over the years in generating funds to help and support the service users.

"It is just so heartwarming to see the smile on people's faces who attend these activities or who go on these trips," he added. "As Chairperson I am delighted to welcome the new volunteers to the committee and I look forward to hearing their ideas and working with them in supporting the service users into the future," he said.

The Athlone Branch recently completed a major new fundraising walk where an amazing amount of €10,105 was raised.

"I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us and wished us well. Also, thanks to everyone who has volunteered their services whether it be bus drivers, carers or fundraisers,” said Treasurer Tom Daly.

The new branch will work alongside the IWA Clonbrusk day service to provide that extra support required to ensure people with disabilities in Athlone live their best lives.

For further information please contact Monica Hughes, Service Coordinator on 087 0507710.