'So crucial': Children's charity launches latest 'Big Toddle' fundraiser for Kildare
Nearly 1,000 children in Kildare have already registered for the campaign
Children's charity Barnardos has announced its 23rd annual ‘Big Toddle’ fundraiser, and already 989 children in County Kildare have registered to take part.
These children are joining the thousands of children across the country who will be putting their walking shoes on to take part in ‘Big Toddle’ sponsored walks in creches, communities and their own gardens.
The ‘Big Toddle’ campaign for pre-school aged children raises vital funds every year to support Barnardos’ Early Years Services. Since the very first ‘Big Toddle’ for Barnardos, €4.84 million has been raised by Ireland’s toddlers and their families.
Speaking about the campaign, Barnardos’ assistant director of children’s services, Clodagh Carroll, said; "The early years of a child’s life are crucial in shaping their future wellbeing and development.
“The ‘Big Toddle’ is much-loved and very special campaign that celebrates young children’s natural energy and helps raise vital funds that go directly towards changing the story for so many vulnerable children.”
She added: “Best of all, it is an event where children help other children to reach their full potential.”
One ambassador for the ‘Big Toddle’ Kathryn Thomas, also said; “As a parent myself, I know the challenges there are in raising a child; that is why the work that Barnardos does, offering a helping hand, is so crucial.
“‘Big Toddle’ is all about your little one’s having fun and helping other children, so I encourage creches, pre-schools or families at home to get involved; it is such a simple way to help to change a child’s life.”
Moreover, the charity’s director of fundraising, Mary Gamble, had this to say about the campaign: “At Barnardos we believe childhood lasts a lifetime, which is why our Early Years services are so important.
“Each year, we support pre-school children in our centres across the country who may be experiencing additional challenges in their development or in their home lives.”
She concluded: “It is with thanks to crèches and families — and their toddlers — that we will be able to keep helping these children reach their full potential.”
Anyone seeking further information about Barnardos can visit its official website.