News

Homelessness and housing charity Galway Simon Community is 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 Dip a Day challenge will take place over the month of May and asks people to raise awareness and funds which will go towards safeguarding Galway Simon Community’s essential frontline services. The charity is encouraging people across the West and beyond to take advantage of the finer weather coming into summer to take a dip a day at their nearest beach, lake, river, or pier as part of their challenge.

Karol Cooke, Community & Events Executive 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 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”, Karol said.

As high rents and a severe lack of affordable accommodation continue to drive people into homelessness, Galway Simon are seeing increasing demands on their services. The money you raise as part of the #DipaDay challenge ensures they can safeguard their housing and homelessness prevention services and support those facing homelessness in the West.

Karol added: “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. 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 in the ‘Dip a Day in May’ challenge. And this year, with the lifting of Covid 19 restrictions, we are planning The Big Dip. On Saturday May 28th, we will be holding The Big Dip for all our participants to come together in person for tea/coffee and a chat – it will be a great chance to gather in person having not being able to do so for the last couple of years. While the cold water may bring the calm, the coffee, tea and chats afterwards will bring the warmth!”

To take part in the ‘Dip a Day in May’ challenge click HERE 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.