Fundraising 'Walk-with-Me' in memory of Mary Ellen Molloy on St Stephen's Day

After the tragic and untimely death of Mary Ellen Molloy in December 2019 her loyal friends and family decided that they needed to create an event that would celebrate her life and that of other young people, all while using the opportunity for the good of some wonderful charities.

In December 2020 we witnessed the very first ‘Walk-with-Me’ a celebratory and commemorative 5k which brought communities all over the world together for a 5k walk on St Stephen’s Day, walks took place in several locations in Donegal, including Mary Ellens hometown of Ardara, neighbouring areas of Glenties, Carrick, Meenaneary and Narin, Portnoo as well as Melbourne, Sydney and New York.

Such was the impact of the event in the locality that the National School children of Meenaneary School opted to donate their Christmas cards monies in lieu of sending cards to each other, this incredible gesture was felt all over the world and especially by Mary Ellen's family.

In its first year, 2020, a total of €33,225 was raised. €16,612.50 was donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) and €16,612.50 to the Downstrands Family Resource Centre.

In 2021 a total of €17,250 was raised, €8,760 to the KBRT, €6,175 Downstrands Family Resource Centre and €2,585 donated to Donegal Counselling Services.

€9,630 was raised in 2022, with the KBRT receiving €3,630, Downstrands Family Resource Centre €3,000, Donegal Family Resource Centre received €1,500 and a sum of €1,500 was donated to the Creeslough Fund.

You can donate to the fundraiser here

Downstrants and Donegal Family resource centres provides incredible support to young people and their families. Providing counselling services as well as emotional support to families who need it.

This year the walks be completed in the Communities of Glencolmcille (GAA), Ardara (GAA), Narin Portnoo Beach, Glenties Walking track and at Solis Lough Eske Castle in Donegal Town, all walks will commence at 12 noon on Tuesday, December 26. Donations accepted on the day and all funds raised will be shared between the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and local charities supporting young people and local family resource centres.