Award for Clare charity worker

At the recent annual general meeting at the Masonic Hall in Molesworth Street in Dublin, the Republic of Ireland Branch of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA-Forces Help) took time to formally acknowledge the service of one of its Munster caseworkers, Paschal Sage.

Originally from Wexford, Paschal is a long-time resident of Shannon and is the president of the Limerick Branch of the Royal British Legion. His outstanding contribution during 10 years as a joint RBL/SSAFA welfare caseworker was formally recognised with an award of a special SSAFA Service Badge and Certificate.
The presentation was made by SSAFA UK Controller Maj Gen Andrew Cumming CBE who was in Ireland for the occasion. General Cumming thanked Paschal personally for his past and continuing involvement in the work of the charity in Ireland. The unpaid volunteer caseworker is the backbone of the charity he said.
“Paschal Sage is just one of many Irish volunteers who give their own time to meet clients and manage their cases. In Ireland caseworkers may need to travel long distances to do this, particularly so in the western counties,” he said.
The 125-year-old charity, whose motto is “One day’s service – A lifetime support”, exists to support the men and women who serve or who have served in the armed forces of the UK – even if it was only for a single day.
They also care for the families of both. Beneficiaries do not have to be UK citizens; Irish citizens with a
service connection are equally eligible for their support.
The organisation is not a benevolent fund but rather a caseworking organisation that provides a reliable, caring and trusted service to its clients through professional staff and trained volunteers. Where clients need financial assistance, SSAFA acts on their behalf to ensure that they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to, and where required, they may source money from other organisations such as the Royal British Legion or regimental benevolent funds.
“It is through people like Paschal that SSAFA continues to maintain relevance as an Irish charity. In 2009 alone the charity helped to make a real difference to the lives of more than 660 people in the Republic of Ireland by providing both financial and practical support, ranging from friendship visits to aids such as wheelchairs and stair lifts,” said Maj Gen Cumming.
If you have a Service connection and feel you need help, SSAFA-Forces Help (Charity No CHY 4629) can be contacted on 01 6772554 or Rep.Ireland@ssafa.org.uk.