'Stand in solidarity with the homeless' - Public urged to take part in Depaul's annual Sleep Out

Secondary school students from Castleknock College in Dublin have joined forces with leading homeless charity Depaul to launch its annual Sleep Out fundraising event happening nationwide this May 17, 2024. 

Secondary school students who are participating in the charity Sleep Out are calling on Ireland to brave the weather and help to end homelessness by registering for the Depaul Sleep Out today.

Depaul has been supporting homeless individuals and families in the Republic of Ireland since 2002 and the Depaul Sleep Out aims to raise awareness of the issue of homelessness and raise funds to support the work of the charity across its homeless services.

Currently there are 13,841 people accessing temporary accommodation and this includes 4,170 children. This figure does not include people who are living on the streets, couch surfing or in direct provision. 

The Sleep Out is Depaul’s flagship fundraising event, with all funds raised going directly to frontline homeless services across the Republic of Ireland.

Speaking at the launch of the Depaul Sleep Out, Headmaster of Castleknock College Chris Kinder said:

“We are here today to stand in solidarity with everyone who is homeless in Ireland and support them by taking part in the Depaul Sleep Out to end homelessness.

“So many young people and children are impacted by homelessness and the Depaul Sleep Out gives students an understanding of what it’s like for a person experiencing homelessness. It is a fantastic activity where our students come together and are united in the call to end homelessness.

“All funds raised will go directly to Depaul’s homeless services to ensure that Depaul can continue to support vulnerable individuals and families experiencing homelessness.”

Caroline O'Connell, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Depaul is urging anyone who can to sign up and make a difference.

“Depaul is urging everyone who can to sign up and take part in the Sleep Out event this May 17 with family, friends, school, college or work colleagues.

“You can register for the Sleep Out through www.depaul.ie to be part of the solution by joining in and hosting your own Sleep Out in your garden, office or school.”

“By taking part in Depaul’s Annual Sleep Out, you will provide a lifeline to people who are homeless.

“All funds raised will ensure that Depaul can continue our vital work in homeless prevention services and temporary accommodation across Ireland. The easiest way to raise funds is to set up a fundraising page on JustGiving and start sharing it today!

“The more people you ask the more funds you can raise for vulnerable adults and children experiencing homelessness.”

“Organising a Sleep Out is a way to show your support and to tell your community that homelessness is unacceptable and that you want to do something about it. If you can’t take part in the Depaul Sleep Out, please give what you can to help someone in homelessness or protect someone from entering homelessness.

“Donate through our website www.depaul.ie .”

To register to take part in the Sleep Out and for more information please visit www.depaul.ie