Connacht Tribune, 26th September 2008

Schools and businesses around Galway city and county are getting ready to show their true colours for GOAL Jersey Day on Friday October 3.

The idea behind this annual fundraiser couldn't be simpler - just wear your favourite jersey for the day and give a donation to GOAL for the privelege.

As the sports enthusiasts' charity, sports people have generously lent their support to GOAL for over three decades, providing many memorable and lasting sporting memories.

Padraig Harrington, Gordon D'Arcy, Mattie Forde, DJ Carey, Joe Connolly, Ken Egan and Sonia O'Sullivan are just some of the sports people who will be proudly wearing their Jersey's on October 3 along with Taoiseach Brian Cowen.

Last year's Jersey Day was a huge success, with over €230,000 raised for GOAL's work across the developing world. Schools and businesses across the country were filled with colour as jerseys of all different shapes, sports and sizes were donned for this special day. So whether it's club, county or country make sure your favourite jersey's ready for exhibition on October 3.

The proceeds from this year's Jersey Day will go towards our innovative housing programme in Uganda where GOAL, in consulation with the local community, identifies families who require permanent housing and builds them a home.

Typically, these are families who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. The cost of building a new house is approximately €3,000 and the typical cost of rehabilitating one house is €700. This provides these families with a permanent brick home, which they would otherwise be unable to afford.

As GOAL keeps administrative costs to the bare minimum, any donation made on Jersey Day will have the maximum possible impact on the lives of some of the world's poorest people.

For more information on how to take part please contact GOAL at (091) 587901 or visit www.goaljerseyday.com or www.goal.ie