Simon Sleep Out set for Longford Rugby Club on Good Friday

The yearly fundraiser has been a vital financial and awareness raising tool in the ongoing fight against homelessness.

It’s return to the home of Longford RFC is expected to draw scores of people from across the midlands and beyond.

“Preparations are going well and we have had a lot of interest in it,” said Noel Greene, fundraising manager with the organisation.

“We are expecting a good crowd on the night and a lot of people have taken out sponsorship cards and raised money.”

The Edgeworthstown native needs little by way of introduction to an event he has been front and centre of since 2016.

Formerly held inside the grounds of Connolly Barracks, its more recent home setting of Longford Rugby Club has more than played its part in realising the aims of a body which has remained at the coalface of one of Ireland’s most topical social issues.

And this year will, according to Noel, prove no different as the charity looks to garner support and public consciousness by encouraging as many people as possible to give up their bed for one night to support those facing homelessness.

“We will be looking to raise around €20,000,” revealed Noel, when asked about whether a specific financial target had been set ahead of this Friday’s event.

“That’s the target we have set and judging from previous years, we are quite confident we will be able to reach that target.

“We will be asking people who are taking part to come well prepared with cardboard, sleeping bags and pillows.”

Noel added refreshments will be provided with registration taking place from 9pm. A number of guest speakers are also expected to address participants with volunteers being invited to settle down for the night from 11pm.