Are you willing to dip your toe in the water? Homelessness and housing charity Galway Simon Community is calling on all sea swimmers, daily dippers, 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.
Galway Simon is encouraging people across the West and beyond to take advantage of the brighter days and ‘take the plunge’ at their nearest beach, lake, river or pier in support of those facing homelessness. Be it that you swim or dip, your participation will help raise vital funds for those at risk of, or facing homelessness in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.
Fintan Maher, Head of Fundraising and Communications for Galway Simon Community explains the idea behind the initiative and the difference you will help to make by taking the challenge.
“It’s a really simple initiative, where we are asking people to take a daily dip and call on their friends, family and colleagues to show their support by sponsoring them to complete their Dip a Day in May challenge. It’s the perfect opportunity to boost your own well-being, immerse yourself in a new experience and make connections through a shared experience.
“Not only will you get to connect with nature, yourself and your community, you’ll also be making a real difference in the lives of people who are at risk of, or experiencing homelessness locally.”
Their services are receiving a growing number of requests for support from people worried about becoming homeless. The money raised as part of the #dipadayinmay challenge ensures they can support those coming to them in crisis and facing the trauma of homelessness in the West.
Fintan added: “Every day, our frontline services are supporting people coming to them who are dealing with very stressful situations, due to financial strains they are under and placing them at risk of homelessness. From January to December of 2022, Galway Simon Community supported 810 households, including 225 families and 476 children. 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 those in our community to get involved, take the plunge and ‘Dip a Day in May’.”
To take part in the ‘Dip a Day in May’ challenge, visit https://galwaysimon.ie/events/dip-a-day-in-may-2023/ where you will also find tips on open water swimming and how to fundraise for your challenge. Galway Simon are also encouraging people to take pictures of their #dipadayinmay and to tag them on social media throughout May. For more information, get in touch with Karol Cooke on 091 381828 or email [email protected]
