Make the most of the shortest day of the year and join the Galway Simon Community for a 'Dip at Dawn' this winter solstice and support those facing the trauma of homelessness across Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. Galway Simon Community invites you to take the challenge, don your swimwear and join your colleagues, friends and family at 8:30am on Saturday, December 21, for an invigorating dip at Salthill Beach and help tackle homelessness.
Fintan Maher of Galway Simon explained: “The 'Dip at Dawn' has become a great event within our community, where people get to take part in a unique experience and have fun whilst helping others. Unfortunately, the number of people needing our help is ever-increasing.
"The latest Emergency Accommodation figures released by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government showed there were 617 people in Emergency Accommodation across Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. This means that in the West, 119 families and 235 children are facing the possibility of Christmas without a home. The vital funds raised by the 'Dip at Dawn' and our many other ways to ensure we can be there to support those in our community living with the fear of losing their home this Christmas.”
Laragh Cunningham and Sarah Thornton from SoulMoves will ensure all are nice and limber after some warm-up exercises, and then the 'Dip at Dawn' crew will lead participants in taking the plunge as the sun rises. If that is not enough to warm your heart, then 79G will be at the ready with hot drinks after your dip.
“Each year, we have been delighted with the phenomenal turnout and support from the community. We are extremely grateful to all who participate and for the vital funds, they help raise to support our work. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this year’s Winter 'Dip at Dawn' on Saturday, December 21”, Fintan added.
Are you up to the challenge? Then bring your friends, family or workmates along to Salthill Beach and share a revitalising moment with the Galway Simon Community, supporting those facing the trauma of homelessness. Registration for the event is €30. To register and for more information, visit https://galwaysimon.ie/events/dip-at-dawn-new/.
If you don’t feel like taking a dip, there are many other ways you can contribute to help Galway Simon keep people out of Emergency Accommodation and in their homes this Christmas. You can host a Christmas jumper day, organise your own fundraising event or make a donation. All information can be found at www.galwaysimon.ie or call 091 381828 to give a life-changing gift to the Galway Simon Community today. 100 per cent of proceeds will go directly to Galway Simon Community, who provide support and accommodation services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.
