School children preparing to say bon voyage for the summer months are being asked to say thanks with a very special present for their teacher– a helping hand to those most in need.

Crosscare is offering families an alternative to buying the usual gifts of flowers and chocolates for their teachers. Instead they are asking for a donation to assist their work with those most in need across Dublin.  In return, children can download a specially designed Thank You Teacher Card from their website and add their own personal message.

Crosscare has for over 70 years been working with people across  Dublin who are on the margins of society – they provide care and support to  the most vulnerable people in the city through their range of education, counselling, food and housing support programmes.  

Crosscare director Conor Hickey said, “We are aware how scarce money is now for families and we feel that the token of a gift of gratitude to your teacher is important. Rather than spend money on something that may well end up not being used we are offering an alternative that can add real value to someone’s life while at the same time letting the teacher know that you appreciate them and their efforts over the year.”

“Crosscare has seen an increased demand in our services over the last four years. Our meals programme now delivers over 200,000 meals per year and our housing and welfare information service had nearly 5,000 contacts over the last 12 months. The money raised through the ‘Thank Your Teacher’ appeal will make a great difference to the lives of many.”

Crosscare runs a range of programmes including homeless services, information clinics, counselling supports and education projects for those most in need.

Their food centres provide three course meals to the public for €3.00, and meals on wheels to hundreds of people living alone who are isolated and in need of support.

Parents can log on at www.crosscare.ie and download this extra special gift for teachers.

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