Take the ‘Steps for Simon’ Challenge to Tackle Homelessness in Galway

Are you ready to step up and take the challenge? This May, Galway Simon Community is calling on people across Galway and the West of Ireland to walk, jog or run 150k in May. With every step you take you’ll help raise vital funds and support those experiencing homelessness in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

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With the growing homelessness crisis in the West, the local charity is encouraging people to support them by partaking in ‘Steps for Simon’. For 31 days in May you can make every step count, be it as part of a team or going solo. If that isn’t enough incentive, there will be individual and team spot prizes for the best fundraisers, most steps achieved, most scenic Steps photo and many other prizes.

Fintan Maher, Head of Fundraising for Galway Simon Community explains the idea behind 'Steps for Simon' and the difference you can make by taking the challenge; "We’re delighted to be launching ‘Steps for Simon’ again this year, where people can put their best foot forward for the month of May and help support those facing homelessness in our community. What we love about this challenge is that everyone can set their own pace to suit their lifestyle and make it as enjoyable or challenging as they like. Every step taken will help improve the participants fitness and also have a positive impact on the life of someone in their community."

"Unfortunately, the number of people needing our help is ever increasing. The latest Emergency Accommodation figures released by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government at the end of January showed there were 640 people in Emergency Accommodation across Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. This means that in the West, 106 families and 200 children have no place to call home. We believe timely support prevents entry into entrenched homelessness. That’s why we’re asking people to take the ‘Steps for Simon’ challenge and in doing so, know that the funds raised will help support people in their community." Fintan added.

Galway Simon is delighted to welcome Laura Burke (@lauraburkefitness) as a Brand Ambassador for their 'Steps for Simon' challenge. Laura is a personal trainer and online fitness coach with over 15 years’ experience in fitness and a powerful online community. She inspires others to find balance, build confidence and prioritise self-care in their everyday lives. Believing that "a healthy body leads to a healthy mind", Laura is encouraging her followers and local communities in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon to step up, get active and support people experiencing homelessness through the Steps for Simon challenge.

To register for the Steps for Simon challenge visit https://galwaysimon.ie/steps/

100% of proceeds raised will go directly to Galway Simon Community who provide support and accommodation services to those experiencing, or at risk of homelessness in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.