Ballymena Hospice Support Group celebrates £150,000 fundraising triumph at AGM

The Ballymena Hospice Support Group marked a triumphant evening at their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, 14 April, held at the Adair Arms Hotel.

The event celebrated a remarkable £149,923.93 raised locally over the past year for the Northern Ireland Hospice and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, showcasing the community’s unwavering commitment to supporting vital end-of-life care services.

The AGM welcomed distinguished guests Trevor McCartney, CEO of Northern Ireland Hospice, and Conal Duffy, Chief Income Officer.

Mr. Duffy provided an inspiring update on the organisation’s efforts to boost income, highlighting innovative community partnerships, including a new collaboration with the Belfast Giants. His address underscored the impactful work being done to ensure the Hospice can continue providing essential care for adults and children across Northern Ireland.

“We are incredibly motivated by Conal’s insights and the amazing work of the Hospice team,” a spokesperson for the Ballymena Hospice Support Group said.

“We’re excited for the year ahead and deeply grateful to our community for their generosity.”

The meeting also saw the election and re-election of officer positions within the group. A heartfelt tribute was paid to outgoing Chairperson Toni, who served with distinction for four years and as Vice Chair for five years prior.

The £149,923.93 raised reflects the collective efforts of Ballymena’s residents, businesses, and volunteers. From street collections to organised events and individual donations, every contribution has bolstered the Hospice’s ability to support those in need.

“Every penny raised helps provide care for children and adults in our community when they need it most,” the group emphasised. “Thank you, Ballymena, for your extraordinary support.”

Looking ahead: Community events and volunteering opportunities

The Ballymena Hospice Support Group is already planning a busy year of fundraising initiatives.

• Street Collection

On Friday, 31 May 2025, they will hold a street collection and are calling for volunteers to spare just an hour or two, to assist. Those interested can contact the group via email at ballymenahsg@yahoo.com or through their Facebook and Instagram pages.

• Charity Golf Day

Golf enthusiasts are also invited to participate in the Ballymena Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual Charity Golf Day on Thursday, 30 May 2025, at Galgorm Castle Golf Club.

This event, in aid of the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, promises a day of sport and philanthropy. To book a place, contact Robert Stewart at Robert_alan_stewart@hotmail.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available through Tom Wiggins at tom@ballymenachamber.co.uk, who was thanked for his ongoing support.

“Hit the green for a great cause!” the group enthused.

• Hospice Fair 2025: Applications now open

A highlight of the group’s calendar is the Annual Hospice Fair, set for Wednesday, 12 November 2025, at Tullyglass House Hotel.

The fair, organised by dedicated volunteers, offers local businesses and artisans a platform to showcase their products while raising funds for the Hospice.

Applications of interest are now open and must be submitted by Monday, 19 May 2025. Interested parties can apply online at forms.gle/UP6ohjULtexPkiJPA or request the application link by emailing hospicechristmasfair@yahoo.com.

The Ballymena Hospice Support Group expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming fair, noting its role in fostering community spirit and supporting a vital cause. “We look forward to welcoming businesses and visitors to this special event,” they said.

A community united

As the Ballymena Hospice Support Group gears up for another year of fundraising, they remain steadfast in their mission to support the Northern Ireland Hospice and Children’s Hospice. With the community’s continued dedication, the group is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Northern Ireland Hospice website at nihospice.org or follow the Ballymena Hospice Support Group on social media.