Financial contributions ensure the continued operation of a boys' home in County Kerry after the tragic demise of its parents.
In the picturesque town of Milltown, mid-Kerry, a heartwarming story has unfolded. A GoFundMe page launched on 27 April aimed to help four boys, Patrick (21), Jack (14), Andrew (8), and Conor (5), purchase their rented home following the tragic loss of their parents, Elaine and Padraig, who passed away within five months of each other.
Elaine, 41, lost her battle with stage four cancer in May 2021, followed by Padraig, 46, in January of this year. The news of the family's losses left the community and the surrounding region in disbelief.
The GoFundMe page was initiated by the boys' aunt, Mary Hayes, and their grandfather, James Clifford. The fundraiser, which garnered donations from all over the world, managed to raise a staggering €379,085 in a single month. This amount was put into a trust fund for the boys, ensuring not only their current living expenses but also future educational costs.
The GoFundMe page has now reached its target, enabling the boys to secure their home in Milltown. The family expressed their profound gratitude for the phenomenal generosity received through the fundraiser. Ms Hayes, who spearheaded the initiative, thanked everyone for their kindness and generosity.
Ms Hayes also acknowledged the crucial role played by the boys' extended family, friends, and neighbours in helping the boys cope with their loss. She stated that without their support, the boys would not have been able to navigate through this challenging period.
The Clifford family's gratitude will never be forgotten. Their story serves as a testament to the power of community support during difficult times. GoFundMe, a platform that allows individuals to create campaigns for various purposes, was instrumental in helping this family secure their future.
In the face of unforeseen circumstances like the loss of both parents, GoFundMe can provide a lifeline for families, offering financial support for housing, medical expenses, and other critical needs. The Clifford family's successful fundraiser is a shining example of the difference such campaigns can make in the lives of those in need.
- In the midst of their personal health and family-health crisis, the Clifford family turned to science-backed methods for coping, seeking advice from mental-health professionals on parenting during grief.
- Glenn Kavanagh, a local financial advisor, noticed the GoFundMe page and reached out to Mary Hayes to offer his services in managing the boys' personal-finance and future investments, ensuring they maintain their health-and-wellness and have a secure future.
- With the exceeded GoFundMe funds, the family plans to establish a community center in Milltown, focusing on health-and-wellness programs and resources for children, families, and adults – a testament to Elaine and Padraig's legacy in the town.
