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Two Newry based charities have benefited from a massive fundraising campaign by family and friends of Natalie McKeown who passed away in February 2022 in Qatar.
Friends and family organised a charity raffle and sponsored walk dedicated to Natalie in aid of PIPS Hope and Support & the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, raising an incredible £25,885.00 as both charities are beneficiaries, both receive £12,942.50 which will considerably aid the services both charities deliver.
The generosity and kindness from the community was outstanding, with fantastic support from local businesses, neighbours, friends and families and the generosity and kindness from the community was outstanding and is appreciated by all involved.
The McKeown Family with their friends & neighbours have presented PIPS Hope and Support’s CEO Seamus McCabe and KBRT’s founders Collie and Eithne Bell with the donation.
Speaking at the presentation, organiser, John Larkin thanked the many businesses locally & nationally and local community for their support, “On behalf of the committee, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to each and every person and local business who helped us achieve this incredible amount for PIPS Hope & Support and the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, the support from everyone is greatly appreciated.”
PIPS Hope and Support’s, Chief Executive, Seamus McCabe thanked the McKeown family, their friends, many businesses, individuals, and the local community for the support, “It is very heartwarming to receive this donation for PIPS Hope and Support from the Natalie’s family and friends. On behalf of the board members, staff and volunteers of PIPS Hope and Support, an enormous thank you to Paula, Dereck, Ciara, Leanne, their family and friends and everyone involved for this kindness and generosity.”
Seamus continued, “I also express our sincere thanks and appreciation to the many sponsors, and businesses who supported the walk and raffle in anyway which is testament to Natalie and the McKeown family. A special mention to all the individuals who organised. This donation will make huge difference to the lives of families and individuals who are emotionally distressed and in need of meaningful support, helping to save lives. Best wishes to everyone. We continue to keep Paula, Dereck, Ciara, Leanne and the wider family and friends in our thoughts.”
KBRT’s Collie Bell echoed his thanks and said “on behalf of KBRT, we are very appreciative of the amazing fundraising dedicated to a beautiful, much loved and missed young lady. This fantastic community support is indicative of the esteem in which Natalie and her family are held. We pass on our thanks to all.
