Over 41 communities in Donegal will be saying The Big Hello! this May Bank Holiday Weekend.
The Big Hello! supports communities to host events in their local area in order to strengthen community ties and help tackle the problem of social isolation.
Donegal was awarded €10,000 as ‘The Big Hello!’ campaign throughout the country that aims to host events in local areas in order to strengthen community ties and help tackle the problem of social isolation.
Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, has expressed his delight at the response by communities in Donegal to The Big Hello! initiative which was launched last month.
Minister Ring said: “I’m blown away by the response that there has been from communities in Donegal. It’s going to make for a really enjoyable and exciting May Bank Holiday weekend in the county.
“Over 790 events have been confirmed nationally, with more to come. In fact, I’m confident that we will surpass our target of 1,000 events throughout the country.”
Some of the organisations hosting The Big Hello! events include:
- Coiste Forbartha Chnoc Fola
- Clonmany Youth & Community Resource Centre
- Letterkenny Community Heritage Group
- Culdaff Development Assoc/Tidy Towns
Minister Ring continued: “I’m delighted that people in Donegal have taken to The Big Hello! concept so enthusiastically. It is a great reflection of the strong communities that we have.
“I now urge people to reach out to their neighbours, especially those who may be elderly or vulnerable, and try to get them involved in their local event.
“In a world where people are spending less time in their communities and more time at work, it is important to find new ways to connect people and focus on the importance of neighbours.
“With our busy lives, it can be hard to make as much time for each other outside of our network of family, friends and social media contacts.
“Sadly, many people living among us are experiencing social isolation and loneliness. I firmly believe that this initiative can help people to connect or re-connect with their neighbours and communities.
“I am really looking forward to attending The Big Hello! events throughout the country over the May Bank Holiday weekend.”
