Galway’s festive spirit was on full display on Christmas morning as over 800 swimmers and dippers from the local community gathered in Salthill for the annual COPE Galway Christmas Swim.
The fearless swimmers plunged into the icy waters of Galway Bay dressed in festive t-shirts to raise crucial funds for COPE Galway Homeless, Domestic Abuse and Older People Services in Galway.
Now in it 34th year, the tradition brought together friends, families of all ages and generations – both familiar faces and new supporters.
Beyond fostering a sense of togetherness and fun, the COPE Galway Christmas Swim is also a community fundraising event.
The funds raised directly impact the lives of families, men and women in Galway affected by homelessness, domestic abuse and older people in need of social and nutritional support.
COPE Galway supported almost 3,000 men, women and children across Galway last year.
One passionate swimmer shared their motivation for taking the plunge, saying that while this has been a Christmas tradition in their family for many years, they also want to do something for people who are isolated or don’t feel safe this Christmas.
Another participant highlighted the festive atmosphere in Salthill on Christmas Day, emphasising the joy of supporting a good cause amid the holiday celebrations.
COPE Galway’s Fundraising Manager, Lynia O’Brien said they were ‘proud and humbled’ to see so many people come out on Christmas morning.
“As well as the registered and fundraising participants, we welcome their supporters and we thank the over 60 volunteers, our sponsors, the lifeguards and emergency teams who have given freely of their time and support,” she said.
“We are so grateful to them for going the extra mile to help make this a safe and enjoyable community event today.”
Lynia said that every day, their staff meet many men, women, children and families in the Galway community who rely on COPE Galway’s services over Christmas and throughout the year.
“Our professional teams work hard to support the resilient and unique people we work with, empowering them to create change in their own lives, and have some comfort during their time of crisis.
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support and generosity of the community, which allows us to continue to provide these essential services for the people and by the people of Galway.”
