Cork Simon Community is calling on people across Cork to take part in a Sleepout at Elizabeth Fort on Friday, October 2, to raise vital funds for its emergency services this winter.
The event comes as the number of people experiencing homelessness in Cork continues to grow. Since April, more than 800 men and women each month have been depending on emergency accommodation in the city.
For people sleeping rough, meeting basic needs can be a daily struggle, while each night can bring uncertainty, hardship and risk. Cork Simon says demand for homelessness services and emergency supports continues to increase year-on-year, with winter bringing additional challenges for those without a safe and secure place to sleep.
Dermot Kavanagh, CEO of Cork Simon Community, said:
“No one should have to face homelessness as the winter months approach. Yet every day we meet men and women who are struggling to find a safe place to sleep, a secure home, or the support they need to rebuild their lives.
“The Sleepout is a powerful reminder that homelessness hits people across our community every single day. We are incredibly grateful to everyone taking part. Every euro raised will help Cork Simon provide housing, support and hope to those experiencing homelessness this winter.”
Cork Simon is inviting members of the public to take part in the Sleepout at Elizabeth Fort, or to organise their own Sleepout in their local community, school or workplace.
Funds raised through the event will support Cork Simon’s range of emergency services throughout the winter. These include emergency accommodation, outreach services, day services and the Soup Run, all of which play an important role in Cork Simon’s response to homelessness across the city.
Anyone interested in taking part in the Sleepout can contact Cork Simon Community by emailing sleepout@corksimon.ie.
