For the second year, local Irish dance schools competed to collect donations for the St. Patrick Hunger Project. The Hunger Project collects donations throughout parade season to support local food pantries. The schools competed in two categories: most meals created, and most meals created per student. The two winning schools secure prime spots in the parade lineup. This year, those spots go to the Johnston School of Irish Dance and the Butler-Sheehan Academy of Traditional Irish Dance. Congratulations to both!
The Parade Committee shares its sincere gratitude with Johnston, Butler-Sheehan, and all of the schools that competed, which in addition to the winners were: Rince Na Sonas, Francis Academy, McDonald School of Irish Dance, Drumcliffe School of Irish Dance, and Harrington School of Irish Dance. “Whichever schools march first,” said Vince Christian, Chair of the Hunger Project, “our community wins due to the efforts of all of the schools.”
In total there a total of 15,000 meals generated from this competition. Over 3,140 pounds of food were brought to the warehouse and over $3,000 were donated. The Parade Committee thanks the dancers and their teachers, family and friends for supporting this important cause.
All of the schools were participate in the Syracuse St. Patrick’s Parade on Saturday, March 16th, 2019. The Parade steps off down Salina St. in downtown Syracuse at noon. The Parade is broadcast live on NewsChannel 9 WSYR. Learn more about the Parade here.