Homelessness and housing charity Galway Simon Community has launched a new virtual challenge calling on all sea swimmers, fitness enthusiasts and everyone in between, to take a ‘Dip a Day in May’ in support of those facing homelessness in the West of Ireland.
The virtual Dip a Day challenge will take place over the month of May and asks people to raise awareness and funds through Facebook which will go towards safeguarding Galway Simon Community’s essential frontline services. The charity are encouraging people across the West and beyond to take advantage the finer weather coming into summer to take a dip a day at their nearest beach, lake, river or pier as part of their virtual challenge.
Amy Lavelle, Community & Youth Partnerships Coordinator at Galway Simon Community explained the idea behind the initiative and the difference it will help to make.
“It’s a really simple initiative where we are asking people to take a dip in their local waters and call on their friends, family and colleagues to show their support by sponsoring them to complete their Dip a Day challenge. It’s the perfect opportunity to boost your well-being while also helping to make a real difference in the lives of people who are at risk of, or experiencing homelessness during these difficult times”, Amy said.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Galway Simon Community has had to cancel many of their annual fundraising events, which are a vital source of income for their frontline homelessness prevention and housing services. The charity are concerned of what lies ahead once Covid restrictions start to ease and explained the need for their services is greater than ever.
“Every day, our frontline services are supporting people who are having to make difficult sacrifices, placing them at risk of homelessness, due to the financial strains that they are under from Covid-19. The reality is we have yet to see the true impact of Covid-19 on our community and Galway Simon Community is concerned that we will see a steep rise in homelessness when the Covid restrictions start to ease. We need to ensure that we can be there for as many individuals and families as possible and that is why we are calling on the support of our those in our community to get involved in the ‘Dip a Day in May’ challenge,” Amy added.
To take part in the ‘Dip a Day in May’ challenge, visit www.galwaysimon.ie/dip and join Galway Simon’s dedicated Facebook group where you can virtually meet other participants, get tips, and be inspired. Galway Simon are encouraging people to take pictures of their #DipaDay and to tag them on social media throughout May. For more information, get in touch with Amy on 091 381828 or email [email protected].
