Tag: charity

  • Charity swim — Little Heroes Foundation Hosts Charity Swim for Children Battling Cancer

    Charity swim — Little Heroes Foundation Hosts Charity Swim for Children Battling Cancer

    The Little Heroes Foundation held its ninth charity swimming event for children suffering from cancer on Saturday in Limassol, raising funds and awareness for families affected by the illness.

    • The Little Heroes Foundation held its ninth charity swimming event for children suffering from cancer on Saturday in Limassol, raising funds and awareness for families affected by the illness.

    Charity swim: A Meaningful Challenge

    Participants swam a challenging 1.5-kilometre route, culminating at the picturesque pier of the old Limassol port near the Marina. This event not only showcased the bravery of the young swimmers but also highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting children in need.

    Support from Local Authorities

    Adding to the significance of the day, the local police took part in the event, with Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis officially starting the swim. His presence underscored the collaborative effort between the community and authorities in raising awareness about childhood cancer.

    A March for Love

    Following the swim, participants and supporters took part in a heartfelt “March for Love” at the old port. This was not just a celebration of the swimmers’ achievements, but also a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by families of hospitalised children. The march aimed to gather donations, directly benefiting these families during their difficult times.

    Community Engagement

    The event drew attention not only for its noble cause but also for the camaraderie it fostered among participants. Families, friends, and supporters gathered to cheer on the swimmers, creating an atmosphere filled with hope and determination. The Little Heroes Foundation continues to inspire local communities and encourages everyone to contribute in any way possible.

    Looking Ahead

    As the Little Heroes Foundation looks to the future, the success of this charity swim reinforces the importance of ongoing support for children battling cancer. The foundation is dedicated to creating more initiatives that will provide assistance and hope to those in need.

  • Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    christmas parcels — christmas parcels — Limassol municipality is spreading festive cheer by distributing 350 Christmas love parcels to families facing financial difficulties. This initiative, organised by the municipality’s Social Grocery Stores, commenced at 10.30am on Thursday and aims to provide essential supplies during the holiday season.

    The handout was attended by Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and Athena Spyrou, the president of the municipality’s social welfare committee. Mayor Armeftis announced that 200 of the parcels have been allocated for registered beneficiaries of the Social Grocery Store, while the remaining parcels will reach other individuals and families in need.

    Armeftis expressed gratitude to the companies that donated products, highlighting the importance of community support during these challenging times. “The existence of this grocery store is essential because needs exist,” he stated, assuring that Limassol’s Social Grocery Store will continue its operations for as long as necessary.

    Athena Spyrou elaborated on the contents of the parcels, which extend beyond just basic necessities. Each parcel includes sweets, festive treats, fresh meat, supermarket vouchers, and even toys for children. “Each parcel is worth more than €30, and we believe every household will be significantly supported,” she mentioned.

    Moreover, specialised parcels have been prepared for specific cases, catering to larger families or individuals with diabetes. Spyrou noted, “We improve every time and become more targeted towards those in need,” and expressed hope that one day, Social Grocery Stores will no longer be necessary. “But for as long as they are needed, we will be here,” she promised.

  • Charity Drive for School Supplies Launched to Support Needy Children

    Charity Drive for School Supplies Launched to Support Needy Children

    The charity drive for school supplies has commenced, organised by the municipalities of Nicosia, Paphos, and Akamas, aiming to alleviate the financial strain on families preparing for the new academic year.

    Charity drive: Campaign Launch and Objectives

    Announced on Thursday, the campaigns seek to gather both new and used school essentials, responding to the escalating costs of educational materials. This initiative reflects a growing concern for families who often struggle to provide necessary items for their children as schools reopen.

    Community Participation Encouraged

    Residents are invited to contribute by donating school supplies in excellent condition, which include items such as backpacks, pencil cases, and stationery. These contributions will be instrumental in helping families who may otherwise find it challenging to afford these essentials.

    Focused Support for Vulnerable Families

    Marinos Lambrou, the Mayor of Akamas, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “There are approximately 15 families who receive coupons to purchase essential school supplies, and this initiative aims to address their financial burdens.” His remarks underscore the targeted support for families facing economic hardship.

    Continuing the Tradition of Giving

    This year’s campaign builds on previous efforts; Mariella Theophanous, chairwoman of Paphos’ social welfare committee, noted that last year’s initiative included the collection of used winter jackets. “A meeting will take place after the holidays to discuss support for primary students in need,” Theophanous confirmed, indicating a commitment to ongoing assistance for local families.

    Collection Details and Locations

    The charity drive began on Wednesday and will run until August 27, excluding weekends, with collection hours from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm. Various locations across Nicosia have been designated for donations:

    • Nicosia: Old Pallouriotissa market, 7 Agios Andreou Street, 1048.
    • Aglandjia: Former Aglandjia Town Hall, 8 Aikaterini Kornaro Street, 2108.
    • Engomi: 42 Kyriakou Matsi Avenue, 2409.
    • Ayios Dhometios: Former Youth Information Centre, 20 Ayios Georgios Street, 2369.
    • Within Nicosia walls: Nicosia Town Hall, 11 Eptanisou Street, 1016.

    These venues provide accessible drop-off points for community members eager to participate in the drive and support their fellow citizens.

    How to Get Involved

    For those wishing to contribute, the municipalities encourage donations of any usable school supplies. Interested parties can also reach out for further information by calling 22797000, ensuring that everyone can play a part in this meaningful cause.

    Significance of the Initiative

    This charity drive for school supplies is not just about material contributions; it represents a community coming together to support its most vulnerable members. As the new school year approaches, the pressures felt by families can be immense. Initiatives like these serve to lighten the load, ensuring that children start their academic journeys equipped not just with the necessary tools but also with the knowledge that their community cares.

    As participation grows, so too will the impact of this charitable effort, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the community. The hope is that this drive will not only ease financial burdens but also foster a sense of solidarity and support among residents.

  • Christodoulides pension: President Nikos Christodoulides Donates Pension to Charity

    Christodoulides pension: President Nikos Christodoulides Donates Pension to Charity

    christodoulides pension — christodoulides pension — President Nikos Christodoulides has taken a significant step by announcing that he will donate his state pension to charity. His decision comes amidst public scrutiny regarding state officials drawing pensions while serving in office.

    The presidency’s statement revealed that Christodoulides will contribute his monthly pension of €730 to charitable organisations dedicated to elderly care throughout his term. This pension stems from his 18 years of service in the public sector, particularly during his time at the foreign ministry.

    In selecting beneficiaries, the president contacted six organisations across various districts, including two facilities in Nicosia, and one each in Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta, and Paphos. This initiative is made possible by a recent law that allows state officials to waive their pension while serving in their roles.

    “For every year, from September to September, and for as long as he holds the office of the president, President Christodoulides will provide various institutions with this monthly compensation,” the statement noted. The law, enacted in July, aims to clarify the process for officials who wish to forgo their pensions.

    Historically, state officials had the option to waive their pensions through a simple notification to the treasury, but recent debates have brought the issue to the forefront. Critics have expressed concern that Christodoulides had not previously waived his pension like other officials, prompting this change in approach.

    In addressing the controversy, the president stated that he prefers to keep charitable actions private, citing a personal conviction against publicising such efforts. However, he acknowledged the public discourse surrounding his pension and felt it necessary to inform citizens of his charitable contributions.

    Amidst this backdrop, the government faced criticism for its handling of the pension waiver procedure. In late July, reports indicated inconsistencies in statements regarding the existence of a waiver process, leading to further scrutiny of the administration’s transparency.

    Christodoulides, who is currently 51, receives a monthly net salary of €9,016. Upon reaching the age of 58, he will also be eligible for an additional €300 in pension benefits for his prior public service.