What once played host to visitors and tourists in Donegal Town, is now home to a specialised centre that offers vital services and support to families with special needs dependents.
Operating out of a converted B&B, the Bluestack Foundation has over 219 local families registered and works tirelessly to enhance the lives of those with special needs. The Foundation grew organically from the remarkable fundraising activities of the local community, through the Magee Bluestack Challenge Committee. Inspired and led by Patrick McBrearty, they have raised hundreds of thousands of Euro over the last decade and provided crucial support for the Foundation’s work. In order to establish their specialised centre, the Foundation required longer-term financial support. This was provided by Clann Credo.
Further support was provided when modifications to the centre led to unexpected extra costs. The families supported by the Foundation have dependents with a diverse range of special needs, including: Autism, Down Syndrome, Asperger’s, Developmental Delay, ADHD, MS, Muscular Dystrophy and Spina Bifida. In order to tailor the centre’s services to the actual needs of the local community, the Foundation engaged in consultation through a series of ‘family forums’. This shaped the range and type of services offered in the centre today, including: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Music Therapy, a Buddy Programme, Parenting Classes; Reflexology, Counselling and drama.
The Foundation also offers a fully accessible transport service.
Location: The Glebe, Co. Donegal
Website:
http://www.bluestackfoundation.com/
"Operating out of a converted B&B, the Bluestack Foundation has over 219 local families registered and works tirelessly to enhance the lives of those with special needs."