CHILDREN IN CROSSFIRE’S SANTA AIMING TO BREAK £100,000 MARK THIS CHRISTMAS
Derry couple Martin and Mary Gallagher, who have been raising funds for Children in Crossfire for the past 17 years, have said they hope their Christmas 2024 campaign will see them ‘break through the £100,000 mark’.
Martin and Mary began fundraising in memory of their son Christopher, who tragically died of malaria as he was traveling the world in 2006. He was just 23 years old.
In the run-up to Christmas each year Martin plays Santa at Derry’s Guildhall, spreading festive joy as he raises vital funds. Ahead of this year’s Santa Appeal, Martin said:
“I love playing Santa at the Guildhall. There is magic in the air when children approach the sleigh. It’s a very positive experience that means a lot to Mary and me, not least because so many people ask about Christopher. It helps to keep his memory alive – and to support very vulnerable children in Ethiopia and Tanzania.
“This year, we really hope we will break through the £100,000 mark for Children in Crossfire. I know how kind Derry people are, so it will mean the world to us if we achieve this goal. We have exciting plans to ensure we do and are looking forward to the next few weeks. At 2pm this Saturday, 23rd November, I will be abseiling down the side of Foyleside Shopping Centre at Foyle Street, along with several little helpers, before making my way by sleigh to the Guildhall. There, a local school choir will kick Christmas off by singing some carols. I encourage parents to bring their children along to Guildhall Square and make some precious memories.”
Children in Crossfire Chief Executive, Richard Moore said:
“Martin and Mary Gallagher are a credit to our city. They possess a Derry spirit that has not only kept them going in the face of profound grief but has helped to save and positively shape the lives of tens of thousands of children. Our programmes in Ethiopia and Tanzania have benefited hugely because of the support we receive from the Gallaghers who, to date, have raised over £90,000.
“Local people have always been very supportive of Children in Crossfire, including through Martin and Mary’s efforts. This Christmas, we are engaging with local businesses and schools to help Derry’s Santa get over the £100,000 line. I have no doubt we will receive a warm response.
“Anyone interested in taking part in our Santa Appeal should contact Aishling on 028 7127 8955 or at aishling.cunningham@childrenincrossfire.org. It’s also easy to make a donation at www.childrenincrossfire.org/santa-donate.”