CHILDREN caught up in the mica crisis are to benefit from a new Christmas single.

‘Kindness of Strangers’ is from the pen of Twin Towns musician Thomas Bonner and has been released just in time for the festive rush.

Thomas pulled out all the stops in capturing the Christmas spirit by enlisting members of the ETB choir to accompany him along with bells, illuminations and even an open fire.

“It seems to have struck a chord with people and it has been received very well so far,” said the singer following the song’s release.

“The production of the song with the choir and the video has been amazing. It’s the sixth video I’ve done with Michael (Gillespie) and he has knocked it out the park yet again.

“We recorded it at Terry McGinty’s studio and Terry has made it sound exactly as I wanted it to sound.

“Creatively we emptied the tank and I’m thrilled with how it has turned out,” said Thomas.

Very much a festive offering with a warm message at its core, Kindness of Strangers was recorded to help the hundreds of children whose homes are impacted by crumbling blocks.

Thomas said he was inspired to put it together after reading some of their heartbreaking stories. And he intends to use the proceeds from the song to treat them to a day out.

“The money from the CD sales and from Bandcamp digital sales will go to the mica-affected families and to giving the children a massive day out.

“I want to give them a distraction from this all-consuming crisis, this monster that seems to be there all the time. That is what this is really about because I’ve been hearing about children terrified for their lives and as a father that has really resonated with me.”

Kindness of Strangers is available in various outlets in Letterkenny, the Finn Valley and Inishowen now. In line with Covid guidance the big day out won’t happen until early 2022 but Thomas hopes to have the cheque handed over to the mica committee this side of Christmas.

“It’s the perfect stocking filler and by purchasing it you are giving a child a day out. There is nothing more Christmassy than that so go out, buy the CD, wrap it up and put it under the tree for someone special.”

Thanking everyone who has helped out, paid out and spread the word, he added, “A huge thank you has to go to all the sponsors who were so good and who dug so deep.

“Also the outlets who agreed to take it and sell it for us. You have been a massive help and your generosity will not be forgotten.

“And finally a special word of thanks to Michelle McGrory McArdle, Catherine McLaughlin, Winsome Cunningham and Ann Owens who were all so helpful.”

You can listen to the song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLqJ9vKtNLQ

Thomas Bonner also launches his new album in the Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey, tomorrow night (Friday). You can book tickets here: https://www.balorartscentre.com/?event=strawman-fearless-album-launch