Fundraisers mucking around for Simon

Galway Simon Community’s frontline staff will set out on a cross country obstacle “run” over a mucky course in a bid to raise funds for the men’s Emergency Service where they work.

The ‘Runamuck’ challenge, taking place on March 5, is designed to challenge participants both physically and mentally, while leaving them with a wide smile on their face.

Training has been underway for the past few weeks as the team test their agility and stamina, and prepare to tackle bale jumps, net scrambles and crawls, bogs, ditches, streams and a floating pontoon bridge across a lake.

Funds raised will go directly to Galway Simon’s Emergency Service which provides temporary accommodation to men experiencing homelessness in Galway and supports them in their search to secure long-term accommodation.

The charity also provides the men with general nursing and mental health supports, addiction counselling and occupational therapy.

“It’s the practical day-to-day running of our Emergency Service that often goes unseen – having somewhere to eat a warm meal, wash your clothes and speak to someone who cares. Right now, we are in desperate need of a commercial washing machine that can handle the rigors of washing all day, every day.” said Ann Murphy, Runamuck Team Leader and frontline staff member.

“It also gives us a chance to get together as a team, as friends, outside of work, get fit and have a laugh! Hopefully, we’ll do our clients and ourselves proud on the day,” she said.

Fintan Maher, Head of Fundraising and Communications, said: “The number of people living in emergency accommodation across the West is rising which is hugely concerning. At the same time, our fundraising took a hit last year with more events cancelled due to the pandemic, so it is genuinely heart-warming and amazing to see our frontline staff go the extra mile to fundraise for our services. It speaks to their commitment and compassion for the people who we support.”

To donate to the fundraiser or for more information, search Galway Simon Community on iDonate.