Current homeless figures show that as of October, there are 13,179 people accessing emergency accommodation in Ireland. Of this stark figure, 3,991 are children.
In light of these shocking figures, the highest that Ireland has ever seen, a greater number of students than ever from Belvedere College in Dublin’s North Inner City are taking part in the school’s annual SleepOut.
The event, now in its 40th year, will raise much needed funds for Focus Ireland and the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS).
Focus Ireland has been Belvedere’s charity partner for the last 40 years.
A spokesperson for SleepOut23 said in statement: “In 2022 Focus Ireland extended aid and support to 16,000 people, including 1,668 families.
“The work they do year on year is vital to combat the worsening homelessness crisis.”
The statement continued: “Furthermore, with the Government’s recent announcement of its inability to accommodate all incoming asylum seekers due to a critical shortage of available housing, the need for JRS's services has intensified.
“Last year, JRS provided assistance to 999,518 forcibly displaced individuals globally.”
SleepOut23 will take place at The GPO, O’Connell Street from noon on the 22nd, finishing at noon on Christmas Eve.
Belvedere College alumni will parallel the effort of current students by sleeping out at College Green on the same dates.
Donations will be accepted in person or can be made online at any time via the SleepOut23 JustGiving page - SleepOut23 JustGiving
Last year, SleepOut22 raised a record breaking figure of €306,143 for the chosen homeless charities.
Information can be found HERE or at any time via the College website: www.belvederecollege.ie
