Good Shepherd launches Sleepathon for the Homeless in Kilkenny City
The people of Kilkenny are being called on to come together in solidarity with people experiencing homelessness to spend one night sleeping outdoors, this winter.
Leading the campaign is Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Joe Malone, who will also be raising funds for services that support those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The Sleepathon for the Homeless is taking place in partnership with the Good Shepherd Centre.
Cllr Malone is calling on people across Kilkenny to become Homeless Champions by registering to take part in an overnight sleepout, which will take place on Friday, November 20, in support of homelessness services.
People are being asked to sleepout from 8pm on Friday, November 20, to 8am on Saturday, November 21, at the iconic Hurler's Monument in Canal Square.
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr Joe Malone will lead this year's event after volunteering to take part immediately after launching The Good Shepherd Centre's annual report last month.
Speaking about his decision to get involved, Cllr Malone said: "Anybody can fall on hard times. I noticed a few of the clients who I know well from down the years living in Kilkenny and I wanted to offer to do something to give back.
“Many people have availed of the services of the Good Shepherd. Sometimes, we don't talk about this, there can be a stigma around homelessness and especially homelessness and addiction.
“I wanted to do something for the service because I personally know of people that have been so glad to have somewhere to go during the hardest or darkest period of their lives."
Noel Sherry, CEO of the Good Shepherd Centre added: “We are calling on individuals, businesses, schools, clubs and community groups to think about sleeping out for one night.
“There are people who do it all the time. Spending one night out in the cold gives people a small insight into the reality facing many people across our communities every day."
The Good Shepherd Centre is also inviting businesses and organisations to ‘Sponsor an Hour of Hope’, or support one of the twelve hours of the Sleepathon.
Regional Manager for Homeless Services and Housing Supports with the Good Shepherd Centre, Catherine White urged businesses to come on board as sponsors and everyone to help raise awareness and raise funds.
Not only will the event be a good way for people to get together in a welcoming atmosphere, with music and refreshments organised, but anyone who is feeling isolated or on the verge of homelessness is welcome to come along for a chat.
One of those already signed up as a Homelessness Champion is Packie Owens who has turned his lfe around with the support of the Good Shepherd Centre.
Anyone can end up homeless, Catherine said, and through raising awareness they hope to end the stigma.
Since 1989, The Good Shepherd Centre has provided support, stability and hope to people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. Organisers say every euro raised through the Sleepathon will help ensure vital services remain available throughout the winter months.
You can register to take part now on Eventbrite.ie just search for ‘Sleepathon for the homeless’ in Kilkenny.