Big-hearted Derry staff raise thousands for local charities

Representatives from eight of the charities attended a reception at HML in Springtown to receive their share of the £6,628.62 raised by staff members over the past year.

During the course of 2015, staff in the Derry office took part in a variety of events including quizzes, a drinks hamper raffle and a ‘dress down’ day as well as donating clothes, toys and food.

Andrew Jones, Chief Executive Officer at HML, said: “HML is very proud of the role it plays in the community of Derry, and we fundraise for good causes and engage with local schools throughout the year.

“We’re really pleased to be able to support the crucial work that these charities undertake locally as well as donating to causes nationally.”

Following a poll of HML staff members in Derry, local charities Foyle Search and Rescue, Foyle Hospice, Altnagelvin Baby Unit, The Rainbow Centre for Animals and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice all benefited from a portion of the money.

Donations were also made to national charities Marie Curie Cancer Care, The Alzheimer’s Society, Breast Cancer Awareness’ ‘Pink Ladies’, Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

Ellen Hillen, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, praised staff at HML for all the work they put in during the year.

She said: “Words cannot express the value of this support. Caring for a sick child requires round the clock care and this can be exhausting for parents. This donation will help us provide three nights of specialist nursing care for a child in their own home enabling the parents to get a much needed night of unbroken sleep.

“We are very grateful for the ongoing support of HML.”