During 2009, Imex will continue to work with and support its chosen charity Barretstown and the company will complete a number of activities to help raise money for the charity and make a difference to the lives of thousands of children. 

Who are Barretstown?

Barretstown is a children's charity based in Co Kildare, Ireland that provides therapeutic recreation programmes for children and families affected by cancer and other serious illness

Founded by the late Hollywood actor Paul Newman in 1994, Barretstown is much more than a holiday camp for sick children - it is a programme backed by tried and tested medical practices like occupational therapy, psychology and adventure based education to help children with serious illnesses regain their confidence and self-esteem.

Children aged 7-17 from all over Europe come to the camp to take part in unique programmes, designed to help children recover from the emotional trauma of an illness. They leave stronger, more independent and with a renewed sense of confidence in themselves.

How did Imex get involved with the Charity?

By chance more than anything!

In 2006 we set out to find something challenging, rewarding, worthwhile and that little bit different as part of our dedication to give something back to the community. After months of searching we found Barretstown. Since then, Imex staff have supported the project by working as volunteers and have raised over £20,000, so far, to support the charity's work.

A number of Imex staff and partners have already been to the camp to work as ‘caras' and this year Imex will be supporting another 84 days where 15 staff will volunteer at the camp, taking the total number to 270 days supported!

How can I help?

It takes over €5 million a year (£3.5 million) to run Barretstown and almost all of it is given to them by donors. Our experiences at Barretstown has led us to become an official partner and we are delighted to be able to offer them continued financial support, as well as a number of Imex staff returning as volunteers.

We feel very passionately about Barretstown and when you consider that every year around 1,500 children benefit from the charity we think you will agree that it is a very worthwhile cause. If you would like to get involved or would like more information please contact me, Arthur Pinkney, on 01977 522900 or by e-mail at fundraising@imexpart.com