On Sunday 5th May, I will run Belfast City Marathon for the second time. I don’t want another one to pass by without doing something for the local community.

It occurred to me that there are lots of wonderful charities out there on the doorstep that are small scale but massive in their impact on people’s lives. Lifelines in fact. Charities that continue to work tirelessly and selflessly yet struggle financially and often get overlooked.

Two charities have came to my attention in recent months, two very deserving and worthwhile causes.

(1) Ramona House, Mullaghmore, Omagh. This charity helps patients overcome alcohol addiction by providing rehabilitation & vital treatment. They literally do save lives. They offer a multi-disciplinary response to help people who are dependant on alcohol. Their approach is unique in that they offer alcohol detox programmes & supported living, rehabilitating & preparing individuals for life after addiction.

(2) Omagh Womens Aid. Omagh Women’s Aid has provided a confidential service to women and children victims of domestic and sexual violence for over 30 years in the Omagh District. We provide a range of services eg temporary accommodation, support in the community, awareness raising, We also work in partnership with a number of statutory, voluntary and community agencies.

During 17-18 we acconmodated 44 women and 27 children at our refuge and 105 women and 58 children and young people in the community.

Any small donation can spare will be gratefully recieved and appreciated.

All donations will be split 50:50 between these

two worthy causes.

Thank you so much.

Cheryl