Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, Announces Chosen Charities

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, has announced the three charities she will support during her term of office: Orchardville, St Vincent de Paul, and North Down & Ards Women's Aid.

Commenting on her choices, the Mayor said:

"I am proud to support these three charities, each of which provides vital assistance to the people of Ards and North Down. The work they do within our Borough is invaluable. The overarching theme of my upcoming year as Mayor is that of belonging.

"As a former school governor, chair of several PTAs, and through my work with volunteers and local charitable organisations, I believe passionately in the power of community and what can be achieved when we work together. I look forward to hosting fundraising events throughout the year and would love for as many people as possible to get involved. With your support, we can help make a positive difference."

Orchardville is a Northern Ireland-based charity that supports young people and adults with a learning disability or autism to live, learn and work. Established in 1982 by a group of parents, it is now one of the leading providers of services for people with disabilities in Northern Ireland.

With a vision of an inclusive society for all, Orchardville works in partnership with participants to support their independence and employability. The charity offers a range of opportunities including employment services, community day programmes, and social groups that help participants become more confident, independent, and healthy.

Founded in 1833 by a group of students in Paris, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul was inspired by the life and work of St Vincent de Paul. The organisation quickly expanded, with the first groups in Ireland established in 1844 and a local presence in Newtownards from 1893. Today, SVP operates in 130 countries worldwide.

Saint Vincent de Paul is a volunteer-led organisation that believes everyone should have the means to live with dignity. Within Ards and North Down, there are six local groups - two in Bangor and one each in Newtownards, Holywood, Portaferry, and Kircubbin. The organisation provides practical assistance to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship. This support includes help with food, gas, electricity, essential white goods, and clothing.

North Down & Ards Women's Aid is a local charity that provides support and protection to women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse. Established in 1982, the organisation offers confidential, non-judgemental services that aim to empower those affected and help them rebuild their lives.

Services include emergency refuge accommodation, floating support in the community and specialised programmes for children and young people who have witnessed or experienced abuse. Women's Aid also works in the community to raise awareness about domestic abuse and promote safe, healthy relationships.

Every year, North Down & Ards Women's Aid supports hundreds of women and children across the Borough. Their work plays a vital role in creating safer communities and offering hope and support to those most in need.

All funds raised throughout the Mayoral year will be divided among the three charities. To make a donation, visit: www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/MayorsCharityDonation.

For more information on upcoming fundraising events or how to get involved, contact the Mayor's Office: 0300 013 3333 or mayors.office@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.

Photo caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, with Lydia Lynas (Orchardville), Sean Johnston (St Vincent de Paul) and Emalyn Turkington (North Down & Ards Women's Aid).