It is a sad but true fact that homelessness in Ireland is a growing crisis. Here are three different charities that you can get involved in to help tackle the issue.
Focus Ireland
Being the largest homeless charity in Ireland, Focus gives people plenty of opportunities to get involved and take action against homelessness. They recruit volunteers for their Community Service Volunteer programme on both a short term and long term basis, to suit your schedule. Focus also encourages people who would like to help by organising their own fundraising events by listing event ideas on their website.
Simon Community
The Simon Community are always accepting donations for their charity shops in Dublin city. Donating your old and unwanted possessions such as clothes, DVD’s and jewellery to their charity shops goes a much longer way rather than sending them to a recycling centre. The charity also accepts cash donations which can be made in person, online or through the post.
Peter McVerry Trust
All proceeds made from DCUtv’s 24 Hour Broadcast last semester were donated to this charity. If you are interested in helping out and enjoy exercise and sports, the trust plans many physical fundraising events throughout the year such as the Long Walk Home Series, the Camino de Santiago in Spain and the Fr. Peter McVerry Rugby Cup. Not only are you raising money for charity, your health and fitness levels benefit too.
More information can be found on www.focusireland.ie, www.dubsimon.ie and www.pmvtrust.ie
Michelle Townsend
Image Credit: Zoe Ryan