Limerick primary school embraces Christmas shoebox appeal

MARY Queen of Ireland students put together an impressive number of Christmas shoe boxes this year, which will now be sent to less fortunate children in other countries.

“The Christmas shoeboxes have opened up conversations in our classes about helping others, donating to charity and caring for children in the world who are less fortunate than ourselves,” Ciara Dorman from the Limerick primary school said.

“Some 154 shoeboxes were filled and donated to the “Team Hope” charity,” Ms Dorman added. 

“This number far surpassed the number they expected and they are truly grateful to the families who supported this very worthy cause.” 

The Caherdavin pupils were also delighted to welcome local hero Sigi Murrihy to their school.

Ms Murrihy, a German native who sends hundreds of Christmas shoeboxes abroad each year with the ‘Team Hope’ charity, spoke to Mary Queen of Ireland students about her own childhood experiences in war-time Germany.

Ms Murrihy’s daughter Esther is an SNA in the school, Ms Dorman added. 

“Sigi really knows what hardship is so she decided to reach out and help other children in similar situations,” Ms Dorman said.

“She is a truly amazing lady with an extremely kind heart.” 

“The girls were in awe of her generosity. She is an example to us all.”