Students put their own stamp on Christmas

THE North Pole is preparing for a large delivery of Santa Stamp Envelopes from schoolchildren across Cork.

It is the fifth year since Cork Simon Community launched its Santa Stamp Envelope initiative, which ensures all letters reach the North Pole safely and in rapid time.

And Blackrock pupils attending Beaumont Boys’ National School and Beaumont National School for Girls joined in the celebrations marking the birthday.

More than 60 Cork primary schools have signed up to the appeal this year, almost double the number registered last year. Last Christmas, over 7,000 special envelopes made their way from the south of Ireland to the North Pole.

The number is certain to rise this year as children ensure their all important letters arrive safely and on time.

All proceeds of the appeal will be donated to people who are homeless in Cork this Christmas.

The stamp appeal scheme was launched in 2006 by Bishopstown’s Cora Keating and has since raised €38,000.

Cork Simon Comm-unity chief executive Dermot Kavanagh thanked the staff and pupils of the numerous schools across the county who have signed up to the initiative.

“The enthusiasm of national schools and their pupils across Cork is a shining example of people rallying together to ensure that people who are less fortunate have support they need this Christmas.

“The proceeds will help to give someone who is homeless in Cork over Christmas hot food, shelter, kindness, a warm welcome from the cold, and hope for a new beginning.”

Santa Stamp Envelopes are available from participating primary schools across Cork city and county. They can also be purchased directly from Cork Simon Community and will be on sale in Douglas Village Shopping Centre this Saturday.

Schools in Cork and Kerry are still welcome to participate. To register a school or to purchase envelopes directly, contact Cork Simon Community on 021 4929416.