Charity appeals for funds

The founder of a Cork- based Chernobyl charity has made an emotional appeal for financial help.

Fiona Corcoran, Greater Chernobyl Cause founder, said a funding crisis is threatening a vital hospice project in Kazakhstan.

Shocked by the conditions at a hospice in the industrial city of Semey (formerly Semipalatinsk) four years ago, it began building a new hospice in the grounds of the city’s general hospital.

The foundations are laid, the basic structure is in place but work will stop unless further funding can be provided, Ms Corcoran said.

“These are tough economic times when people have less disposable income but our charity’s survival is crucial because of the nature of the work we do,” she said.

“We are desperate for help, as we need to continue to be a glimmer of light in the darkness of so many vulnerable lives.

“The cost of completing this hospice is €170,000 — just a fraction of what it would cost to build a similar facility here.”

She appealed to people to support its annual gala auction at Bunnyconnellan’s in Myrtleville, Co Cork, at 8.30pm on Sunday.

There will be a range of items available, including donated art works, leisure centre membership, sailing lessons, jewellery and a range of hotel breaks.

All the money raised will fund the building of the Semipalatinsk Hospice.

* www.greaterchernobylcause.ie