Home2Hospital Volunteer Drivers’ Celebration of Thanks
Bolster Community staff and Board celebrated the driving force behind the Home2Hospital service- our Volunteer Drivers.
Bolster Chairperson Eamonn Connolly welcomed guests to Warrenpoint Golf Club last Thursday, speaking of the dedication and commitment of the Volunteers who give up their time to support those living in the local community who struggle to attend out-of-area hospital appointments. Eamonn expressed his gratitude to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for funding this vital community service over the past 7 years.
During the last year, Bolster Community Volunteer Drivers have ensured that 421 older people, who have no other means of transport, made it to essential medical appointments. Even throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, our Volunteer Drivers remained vigilant but continued to support those in need in our community, especially those living rurally in areas such as Kilkeel and South Armagh. The celebration event was full of laughter and an opportunity for fellow volunteers to catch up. A highlight of the night included the screening of a short film produced by Bolster Community which featured service users expressing their gratitude for the Drivers in their own words.
A special award was made to Majella Baxter, who has been a great friend to Bolster Community over the years, helping to source furniture for many families in need. Michael Savage also gave a special thanks to Mrs Anne McArdle from Kilkeel who has been a Volunteer Driver with Bolster Community for 10 years.
Ann McArdle, Volunteer Driver, pictured with Michael Savage, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
Attendees included NI Minister of Finance Conor Murphy MLA, MLA’s Justin McNulty (SDLP), Diane Forsythe (DUP) along with local councillors Oonagh Magenis, Roisin Mulgrew and Aoife Finnegan. All paid tribute to the unwavering dedication of Bolster Community’s team of dedicated Volunteer Drivers and staff who ensure the Home2Hospital service is kept on the road.
Could you join our amazing team of Volunteer Drivers? Contact Paula on 028 3083 5764 or email admin@bolstercommunity.org