Courtyard garden party funds hospice respite break

Christine McIlroy, owner of Take Thyme delicatessen, celebrated ten years of business during a garden party at the picturesque premises.

The venture raised £570 for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.

“The party gave us the opportunity to help in some small way. We are parents and indeed grandparents and we count our blessings,” Christine said.

“Everyone associated with the Children’s Hospice deserves whatever help and support we can provide. We are absolutely delighted that we raised enough to fund a respite break at the hospice for a child and their family.”

Thanking the businesses involved was Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice community fundraiser, Catherine O’Hara.

“On behalf of everyone at Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, I would like to congratulate Christine on 10 years in business and thank everyone at the Courtyard for their support,” she said.

“Every pound raised will have a positive impact in ensuring the services we provide continue for the children, young people and their families using our specialist services.”

“Last year we cared for almost 300 life-limited children living in Northern Ireland. It costs £3 million pounds every year to maintain our services and with very little Government funding, we depend on our local communities who are unbelievably generous.”

Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice provides respite and end of life care for children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

Practical, emotional and bereavement support is also provided for the whole family. Care is provided at the Children’s Hospice buildings in Newtownabbey and Killadeas and also in local communities across Northern Ireland.