The fund-raising is centred around a 'Tree Of Life' which will include leaves and acorns that may be 'purchased' by supporters to remember their loved ones or to commemorate some family or special event.
The Tree of Life will have a prominent position within the centre. Fittingly, given the town's connection with the Black Oak River, the trunk of the tree will be Irish bog oak. A number of 'salmon' at the base of the tree may also be purchased by people wishing to make a substantial contribution.
The Cuan Modh Centre is estimated to cost €950,OOO and will provide services for the community such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy; nursing and medical services, recreational activities, such as art, drama, computer and exercise as well as an in-house library. It is also planned to provide transport to and from Cuan Modh for shopping outings, collection of pensions and day trips.
The Tree of Life concept was decided on being both a piece of living art within the Centre and a community remembrance project. People wishing to support the development may purchase a leaf for €1OO or an acorn for €250. The leaves and acorns, in stainless steel will be attached to the tree with a message from the donor remembering some relative or event in their lives. As the donations come in the project will come alive with leaves and acorns. Substantial or corporate donations may be purchased in the form of a salmon at a cost of €5,000
To date the St Dominic's Housing for the Elderly Committee has raised over €60,OO0 for the project and has sought grant aid from the Department of Health and Children.
The Tree of Life is aimed at local people but also people from the Newport area who have made their homes abroad. A list of people with roots in the Newport area is presently being compiled and they will receive a request for support in the near future.
"We need the help and goodwill of Newport people at home and abroad " said Dr Brian Lennon, Chairman of St Dominic's. The Tree of Life is an Unique project that allows people to contribute to a very worthwhile development but also to commemorate their loved ones or some special occasion in their lives.
"Their contribution will be recorded in a permanent way in the centre and the tree itself will become an enduring memorial to the generosity and goodwill of the people" he said.
This is a community project taken on board by volunteers from the community hoping to keep our own within the community.
Anyone seeking further information, or wishing to supply names and addresses of families and friends to put on the mailing list can contact 098-42529 between the hours of 10 -3 Monday to Wednesday.