Kildare communities urged to walk 100km this September for local Jack and Jill families

Life Pharmacy, part of the Uniphar Group, is calling on communities across Kildare to lace up and step out this September in support of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.

The nationwide “Walk 100km in September” fundraising campaign officially launches this month, with Life Pharmacy teams across the country leading the charge with the goal of raising €100,000 to fund 5,556 hours of in-home nursing care.

The campaign was officially launched with the support of national broadcaster, Dr. Ciara Kelly earlier this week.

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In Kildare alone, 35 families are currently receiving support from the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, with 188 families having benefited since the charity was established in 1997.

Every €18 raised provides one hour of vital home nursing care for children with severe learning disabilities often associated with complex medical needs.

Local Life Pharmacies across Kildare will be taking part in sponsored walks throughout the month, and they’re inviting customers and communities to get behind the cause, by donating, walking, or both.

Mairead Reen, Chairperson, Life Pharmacy, said: "At Life Pharmacy, we’ve always believed in the strength of community – and this campaign is proof of what we can achieve when we walk together for a common cause.

“We’re immensely proud to partner with the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation once again, and I encourage everyone in Kildare to get involved. Whether it’s one step or one donation, every action matters. Together, we can turn kilometres into care for families who need it most."

Deirdre Walsh, CEO of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation said: "We’re so pleased to be partnering once again with our wonderful friends at Life Pharmacy for another inspiring community-driven fundraiser. This month, we’re encouraging all the pharmacies and their customers across the country to register and take part in the ‘Walk 100km in September’ challenge, with the goal of raising €100,000 in vital funds for Jack and Jill families nationwide.

“This support will make a real difference helping to fund 5,556 hours of in-home nursing care for the 451 families currently under our wing. We’re incredibly grateful to Life Pharmacy for their continued commitment, and we can’t wait to see communities coming together in support of local families throughout September."

Dr. Ciara Kelly, Newstalk radio presenter, columnist, and champion of inspiring the nation to walk, added:  "I’ve always believed in the power of walking – it’s free, it’s easy, and it’s for everyone, no matter your age or fitness level. All it takes is a road, a pair of runners, and a bit of fresh Irish air. But now, every step you take can do something even more powerful.

“By joining this Life Pharmacy ‘Walk 100km Challenge for Jack and Jill’ campaign, your walk can help raise vital funds for Jack and Jill families in your local community. So why not lace up, step out, and turn your walk into a lifeline for a child who needs your support? Let’s get Ireland moving, one meaningful step at a time."

Since its founding in 1997, the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation has supported more than 3,100 families nationwide.

Today, 451 families are under its care, receiving up to 100 hours of tailored, in-home nursing care and respite support each month, a lifeline made possible through public donations and community-led campaigns.