Staff and pupils from St. Cecilia’s College in Derry have completed a 96-hour fast to raise funds for Gaza Ground Aid Ireland, with the initiative receiving strong support from the wider community.

The fast, which ran throughout the week, saw Mr. Conlaoth Rodgers, Mr Dermot O’Kane and Lisa Coyle undertake the full 96-hour fast, while other members of staff joined through solidarity fasts ranging from 24 to 72 hours.

Many pupils also chose to participate by fasting for 24 hours, while others supported the initiative through fundraising, donations and words of encouragement.

By the end of the fast, the school community had raised £5272.89, already surpassing initial expectations. Donations will remain open for a further three weeks as the school continues to support the fundraising effort.

Dermot O'Kane and Conlaoth Rodgers with St. Cecilia's pupils who took part in the Gaza fast.

placeholder image — Dermot O'Kane and Conlaoth Rodgers with St. Cecilia's pupils who took part in the Gaza fast.

Speaking after completing the fast, Mr. Rodgers said the experience had been both challenging and deeply meaningful.

“This initiative was about solidarity and compassion. We wanted to raise awareness and support humanitarian aid for people facing extremely difficult circumstances. What has been most inspiring has been the response from our pupils, staff and the wider community,” he said.

Mr. O’Kane added that the level of support shown throughout the week demonstrated the strength of the school’s community spirit.

“Staff members joined the fast for different lengths of time, and many of our pupils also chose to take part or support the effort. The generosity and encouragement we received from across the community has been incredible,” he commented.

The initiative was supported and promoted by local solidarity group Rise for Palestine, helping to spread awareness of the fundraising effort.

Funds raised will go directly to Gaza Ground Aid Ireland, a humanitarian organisation providing essential assistance to people in Gaza.

Organisers say updates will be shared with the school community as the funds are distributed and used to support those in need.

Staff involved in the initiative said: “It has been a powerful experience for everyone involved. Most importantly, it has allowed our students to see compassion, solidarity and generosity in action.”

Members of the public can continue to make donations on the fundraising website at: https://chuffed.org/project/170204-96-hour-fast-for-gaza