Athlone community effort sees opening of 'outdoor seomra' for wheelchair users

A huge community effort involving local tradespeople, businesses, Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) volunteers and staff has resulted in a new garden room and the refurbishment of the sensory garden at Irish Wheelchair Association's centre in Clonbrusk, Athlone.

IWA members, their families, volunteers and IWA staff came together recently to mark the opening with a garden party.

The official opening was a celebration for everyone involved and recognised the efforts of volunteers and those who funded the project, which is estimated to be worth €45,000.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Monica Hughes, IWA Service Coordinator, said the project had been a "mammoth undertaking" that would benefit so many people with disabilities from the area.

"Over the past few years, especially after Covid, the IWA community garden became a really important part of our centre for our members.

"But, realistically, we do live in Ireland and we soon learned we needed a sheltered space in the garden where more vulnerable members could come inside to get a bit of shelter from the wind and cold and maybe even the sun, sometimes!

"It is great that people with higher needs, who are more vulnerable to the elements, can come outside and be with us if we are gardening, or doing an exercise class, but still be comfortable and sheltered."

Athlone's Irish Wheelchair Association has a branch of volunteers who also attended the launch and were delighted to see the results of all their hard work.

For many years, the committee has supported the association with volunteers and also led regular fundraising activities.

Treasurer of the local IWA branch and project coordinator, Tom Daly, a Mount Temple resident, paid tribute to the local tradespeople and volunteers who gave their time freely to get the project over the line.

"When Monica told us how much members enjoyed the garden and how they would benefit from an outside room, we felt we had to do everything in our power to get it done," said Tom, speaking at the official opening.

"Everyone we pitched the project to immediately came on board. It's a very true saying that, if you want something done, ask a busy tradesman! I also want to thank the local businesses and business people who gave generously with discounts and donations," he said.

Colm Dooley, the manager of Chadwicks Ballinasloe, was at the opening event and said, "I'm delighted to be here to see the result of Chadwicks' support for this IWA project.

"This garden and 'seomra' has been so important for IWA members in Athlone and it has been a privilege to be able to donate materials to support such a great community project."

Athlone's Irish Wheelchair Association members and Sunshine youth-club attended the opening of the Seomra and were delighted with the space and comfort of the unit for members.

Speaking on the day, Monica Hughes was very keen to acknowledge the work and support the centre received.

"The task became a lot bigger than we first thought. We had to apply for planning permission to even get started, and it has been a massive project with support from all corners; from fundraisers, local businesses and local tradesmen. We want to especially thank IWA charity partner Chadwicks for their help with this project," she said.

"DPD Ireland in Athlone and Athlone Credit Union’s Community Support Fund have generously donated to this project and support from local businesses and organisations including Athlone Men’s Shed and our dedicated volunteer gardeners have also been vital in bringing the garden back to life. Their work is very much appreciated," said Monica Hughes.

"Without the goodwill of the community this would not have happened," she concluded.