Galway TD urges people to “go the extra mile” supporting charities during crisis

Galway East TD Seán Canney is urging people “go the extra mile” in supporting charities, when their services are more in need than ever, and fundraising has become more difficult.

Many charities rely on collecting money in the street, or through gate collections at special events such as sports games or concerts, in order to raise funds, and ensuring adequate resources can be a challenge at the best of times.

However the suspension of any mass gatherings, and the complete drop in footfall on the streets as people stay home, has made it harder than ever to

“Most of our charities rely on fundraising but the emergency COVID-19 measures mean that many outdoor fund-raising events have had to be cancelled, particularly overseas ones.”

Deputy Canney said that charity groups make an “invaluable contribution” to society, and that many of them are crucial to our response to the coronavirus crisis.

In Galway alone, COPE and the Galway Simon Community are providing even more help for the homeless than usual, helping the most vulnerable with hygiene products, and space to self-isolate if necessary.

While COPE Galway is also supporting older people who have to stay at home to protect themselves, and run the risk of becoming isolated.

COPE has issued an urgent appeal for more support during the coronavirus pandemic, asking people to consider making a donation, or helping community catering by buy meals which will be home delivered to older people.

Galway Hospice, which is almost entirely funded through community support, has also issued a plea for help in these trying times, asking people to consider making an online donation, or entering their weekly draw to keep their services running.

Deputy Canney suggested that people could look to alternative ways to support the charity of their choice from home, through virtual events and online challenges that comply with social distancing guidelines.

“People can also fundraise from their own homes through social media networks,” Seán Canney said, adding that it has been great to see so much creativity coming from people looking to support their community.

“For example one of our own local platforms, iDonate, which is a free service to charities, provides people with a means for setting up their own online fundraising pages.”

“I am aware that many people may be under financial pressure in the current crisis but I would urge all those who can support charities to do so.”