Mallow Red Cross Youth were very busy during the past month. The members range in age from 5 years to 25 years. The group wanted to do something to help the less well-off in society and so they decided to put together an Advent Box which they would donate to Cork Penny Dinners. The idea behind the Advent Box was that every week each group member would put an item from the Cork Penny Dinners wish list into the box. As the Advent Box began to grow, the younger members of the group began to understand the problem of homelessness and poverty.  Five other Red Cross Youth groups also got involved in the initiative (Cobh, Cork city, Bandon, Clonakilty and Ballinora/Ballincollig).  As youth leaders, they are very proud of each and every youth member for their fantastic work. On Monday, December 19th, the youth leaders presented Cork Penny Dinners with the proceeds of their efforts which included tins of peas and beans, custard, soup and biscuits. Tin foil, salt, washing up liquid and bin bags were also among the items donated. This month, Mallow Red Cross Youth also went carol singing in Bridhaven Nursing Home. They really did put smiles on the residents’ faces. They truly put the principle of humanity to good work this month. Mallow Red Cross Youth would like to take this opportunity to thank all their youth members for their fantastic work this year and we look forward to seeing the Cadets and Novices back at their usual times on 6th January and the Teddy Bears will start back on 7th January. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Mallow Red Cross Youth.