Mitchell House School
Mitchell House is an Education Authority co-educational special school for children with physical disabilities and associated learning/sensory needs. Located in east Belfast it caters for up to 100 children between the ages of 3 and 19 years from Belfast and surrounding areas. The Club has developed a special relationship with the school and for several years the Belfast Club has taken the school children on a 'Kids Out' Day (more here), provided Christmas parties for the Junior School children (see below) and supported practically and financially.
In 2022 the Club have provided support for new equipment for a Sensory Room.
Continuing its support of Rotary’s End Polio Now Campaign the Club have planted crocus corms in their grounds. The bulbs were donated by the Club thereby contributing to and raising awareness of Rotary’s ongoing campaign to rid the world of Polio as purple represents the colour of the dye painted on the little finger of a child to signify they have received a potentially life-saving polio vaccine.
The Club planted 500 in December 2017 and 4,000 in December 2021 when Cameron and Rebecca were willing helpers despite the cold weather. 
The Club are indebted to Donaghadee Golf Club's staff for the hire of the turf removal machine and help with the planting.
School Principal, Miriam Donnan was delighted with the planting and pupils and staff were delighted to see them in bloom in the spring.
Christmas Parties
The Club has for the last 20 years provided a Christmas party for the children at the school. Although this party takes on a very familiar format each year, these parties have been very successful, judging by the reaction of the children, and the enthusiasm is contagious. Without being there it is impossible to imagine the wonderful time all those present including the Rotarian 'elves' have and take away special memories and confirmation of how beneficial this project is. The school are very grateful and always compile a "Thank You" Card from all the children. The Club thanks all members who have contributed in any way.
Xmas Party 2025
The Club was delighted to end activities for the 2025 by providing the traditional Christmas Party for the Mitchell House Junior School children on Wednesday December 16. It was the 21st and was as enjoyable for all as ever!
As usual there was some singing, games, drinks and snacks supplied by the Club and Magic George again enthralled the children. This was clearly illustrated by the laughter, squeals, and pure joy evident on the children's faces as he captivated them with his juggling and mischievous monkey puppet, whose array of tricks received enthusiastic applause from the children (not to mention the staff and Rotarians in attendance!).
Santa (who had a remarkable close resemblance to PP Brian Clements) arrived and there was the customary present-giving session for each child. Thanks are extended to PP Mark for the organisation and PP Brian and Rosie for the goodie bags and snacks.
To view a Gallery of recent parties, click to enlarge and scroll.
