Write a commentFundraising supremo John Dalzell MBE, is once again out on Hill Street to raise funds for the Southern Area Hospice and his years of fundraising were marked on a recent visit to Stormont.
Newry's version of Black Santa will spend his birthday the same way he has done for the last 24 years standing on Newry's oldest shopping street to collect money for the Southern Area Hospice.
Turning 74 years old this year and still going strong, John asks everyone to think of the Hospice and everyone it has cared for since opening 25 years ago by giving whatever you can to help those in need.
John, along with some of his team and Hospice staff were invited to Stormont on Thursday 3rd December 2015 where they received a tour and a private reception to recognise the great work carried out by John for Southern Area Hospice over the last 24 years. Majella Gollogly, Fundraising Manager for Southern Area Hospice Services stated that without the efforts of John, the Hospice would not be able to carry out the services that it does.
MLA Simon Hamilton, Health Minister congratulated John and thanked him for his continuous good will. He also stated that more needs to be addressed regarding Palliative Care. This was all reiterated by Mickey Brady MP, Danny Kennedy MLA, Jim Wells MLA and William Irwin MLA, who all spoke of the great work that John has done, and continues to do for the Southern Area Hospice.
John's Sit-Out will take place at its usual spot in Marcus Square on Hill St where his familiar trailer will be stationed from 17th- 24th December from 8am until 6pm each day. Regional Marketing Officer for the Hospice James McCaffrey who works with John and his team said "ohn and his dedicated Sit-Out team are an incredible example of the spirit of giving at Christmas. The amount of time and effort they put into this collection for the Hospice each year is truly amazing and it is an honour to work alongside them. To date they have raised a staggering £1,305,000 for our cause. On behalf of all of the patients and their families and friends who have been touched by our services in the past 25 years of Hospice Care I would like to sincerely thank John and his team, and everyone who continues to support them."
As well as John's Sit Out on Hill Street, collections will take place around the town at Fiveways Shopping Complex, The Quays Shopping Centre and B&Q, so please keep an eye out for them when you are in town.
John also loves a bit of craic and company to keep him warm on Hill Street so don't be a stranger if you're passing by!!
If you would like to make a donation to this Appeal in aid of Southern Area Hospice Services please come down to John\'s Sit Out on Hill Street, make a donation to one of his collectors around the town or send your donation to: Southern Area Hospice, St John\'s House, Courtney Hill, Newry.
