By Emma Xerri
The John Mc Foundation is kicking off another year of tremendous generosity with their St Patrick’s Day Charity Walk on Sunday 17 March at Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick.
While continuing to raise much-needed funds for their usual soup kitchens and vans, the foundation is trying something new with their first ever walk.
“We’re a group of local volunteers, and we’ve been going for eight years now, raising funds for the local soup kitchens to help people doing it tough,” foundation founder John McGreal said.
“This will be our first charity walk, and if this goes well we will definitely do it again.
“We run lots of shows and wine tours, which is great, but the walk has a health aspect to it. It’s an opportunity to get up in the morning, take the dog for a walk and raise some funds along the way. So, I’d like to think that it’s something that can keep growing.”
The St Patrick’s Day setting gives an added novelty to what was already a terrific event, with goodie bags on offer with every adult ticket, a barbecue sausage sizzle, complementary energy drinks and a certificate upon completion.
But in the St Patty’s spirit, attendees are also encouraged to put on their finest green attire to truly participate in style.
“I have Irish heritage and we always celebrate St Patrick’s Day, so I thought the day could add a bit of a novelty to the walk.
“I’ll be wearing my green hat, so if you’ve got something green to wear, that will definitely be a bit of fun.”
As well as being a fun way to spend a Sunday morning, the foundation hopes that the event can be another opportunity for them to raise all-important funds for those in need.
After hosting a brilliant series of events in 2023, including a Christmas lunch for those doing it tough during the holiday season, the volunteers at the John Mc Foundation hope the charity walk will be a great start to another year of helping out the local community.
“We set out to try and make a difference in people’s lives, and we’re still going strong. All our events last year were sold out, so we have a great supporter base, which is fantastic. And we hope to do it all again this year.
“We’re hoping people can come along and join in on the fun. The park itself is so picturesque, and it’s a great opportunity to get to know the park while doing something good for your fitness, your mental health and your community.”
For more information and to register, visit trybooking.com/events/landing/1171146?
