Galway Simon Community is calling on people across the West to take part in their brand new Sprint for Simon – 12 Days of Christmas Challenge.
The new initiative was launched to raise vital funds for their frontline services, and also help promote mental well-being during these difficult times.
Those taking part in the challenge are asked to run, walk, or jog 1 kilometre every day for the 12 days of Christmas, while at the same time raising much-needed funds for the local charity.
From 25 December, people across Galway and the West can participate each day in a place of their choice, whether it is on the Salthill prom, the Long Walk, on their local pitch or even in their garden.
While Christmas is usually a time for giving and enjoying time with loved ones, for those facing homelessness, Christmas can be a particularly challenging time.
So far this year, Galway Simon has supported over a thousand individuals through their Homelessness Prevention and Housing Services.
The pandemic and the economic fallout from it have put a lot of people in very precarious and uncertain situations which the charity believes could result in an increased demand for their services over the coming year.
At the same time, Galway Simon’s ability to raise funds has taken a huge hit, with the closure of their shops throughout lockdown, as well as the cancellation of many fundraising events.
Speaking about the event, Amy Lavelle, Community & Youth Partnership Coordinator with Galway Simon, said this brand new fitness fundraiser will be vital in helping them safeguard their essential services
“As the economic effects of the Covid-19 crisis take hold, many already very vulnerable people are now facing the real risk of losing their home. At the same time our fundraising activities continue to be massively impacted,” said Amy.
“By signing up to take part in this challenge, not only will you be doing something positive for your own health and well-being over the Christmas break, you will also be helping to protect vulnerable individuals and families in our community from the risk of homelessness – and from Covid-19.”
Local fitness trainer and influencer, Jason Mitchell Fitness is supporting the event this year, encouraging people across the West to register to take part and make a real difference.
Speaking about his involvement, he said that he is delighted to be part of the first ever Sprint for Simon challenge this Christmas in aid of Galway Simon.
“I am passionate about promoting positive physical and mental wellbeing in our community,” Jason said.
“I think this is a great way for people to keep active while also supporting those facing homelessness at a very difficult time of year.”
