The Jack and Jill Children's Foundation has been announced as the official charity partner for Cannonball 2024. Former Miss World Rosanna Davison made this announcement, alongside Cannonball founder Alan Bannon and Alex Dunne, a four-year-old from Wicklow who benefits from the foundation's services.
Alex was born with PVL (Periventricular Leukomalacia) which is a type of brain injury. Alex is the only known person in the world to have the two specific genetic chromosomal deletions that have caused his condition. He and his family are just one of the 416 families across Ireland currently under the care of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, which will be the charity beneficiary of this year’s Cannonball supercar event.
Over €1.6 million raised by Cannonball
Kildare businessman Alan Bannon founded Cannonball, which has raised over €1.6 million for Irish children's charities to date. Cannonball 2024 will take place from 6 to 8 September, starting at Johnstown Estate in Enfield and travelling through Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Galway and Leitrim before finishing in Trim, Co. Meath. The event is expected to draw over 200,000 spectators with its display of special cars from prestigious marques such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Porsche, Aston Martin and Maserati. A highlight will be the first Irish outing for the Lamborghini Revuelto.
The event is known for its unique festival atmosphere, featuring Brazilian dancers, live DJs, bands and family-friendly activities. Spectators are encouraged to dress up in fancy dress, with prizes for the best costumes.
Important work
Rosanna Davison expressed her support for the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation, stating: “As a mum of three, I can only begin to imagine the challenges faced by Jack and Jill families across Ireland, like the Dunnes, who have children with such complex medical needs. I am thrilled to lend my support to Jack and Jill, and I know that Cannonball will bring a fantastic spectacle once again around the country and look forward to bringing my own family to enjoy Cannonball when it comes to the beautiful Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow in September.”
The Jack and Jill Children's Foundation provides vital in-home nursing care and respite support to 416 families in Ireland, caring for children with severe learning disabilities and complex medical needs. The foundation operates seven days a week, offering up to 100 hours of nursing care per month without means testing or waiting lists. They also provide end-of-life care for children up to the age of six, allowing parents to bring their child home during this difficult time.
For more information, visit Cannonball.ie and Jack and Jill Children's Foundation.