A charity tractor run was held in West Cork to raise funds to build a daycare center for local adults with autism in Dunmanway.
Funds raised from today’s tractor runs will help cover a community contribution of €150,000 against the €10 million cost of the new center.
More than 500 tractors took part and the line of vehicles stretched for about 25 km around the village of Kilbrittain.
“What we want to create at Dunmanway is a second home for adults with autism,” said tractor operator Jim O’Mahoney.
14-year-old Reese O’Mahony has autism and lives in Kilbritten with her parents, Jim and Anne, and her brother, Evan.
Over €120,000 was raised through the annual Kilbrittain Tractor Run for the autism unit of his local national school.
“It’s been great to have a local unit for him to join,” said Ms. O’Mahoney.
“I also think it’s about raising awareness of autism for the Kilbrittain staff and students and the community at large.”
The Kilbritten Tractor Run for Autism started in 2013 with 276 tractors. Last year there were over 550 participants.
Our goal this year is to exceed that, and we’ll know the final number of participants tomorrow.
Planning applications for the center are expected to be submitted early next year.
