The first ever Big Gorey Sleep Out

The people of Gorey are being asked to ‘sleep out’ and support children who are experiencing homelessness.

Focus Ireland will host its very first ‘Big Gorey Sleep Out’ and is calling on everyone to sleep outside for one night in the car park of the Methodist Church in Gorey to help change a life and raise vital funds for homelessness.

More than 3000 children will be homeless this Easter. The Sleep Out will take place on Friday, March 23, at 9 p.m.

South East Regional Fundraiser for Focus Ireland Cathryn O’Leary said participants should bring along a sleeping bag, duvets, pillows, and wear very warm clothes.

‘If it gets very cold we will then use the hall in the Methodist Church,’ added Cathryn.

Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be available throughout the night. Cathryn said the Sleep Out is ideally over-18, but if a family or a teacher with students want to take part they can.

‘Wexford hurler Conor McDonald is an ambassador for us,’ said Cathryn. ‘He will be taking part and has sponsorship cards for anyone who is interested.’

For more information or to get a sponsorship card, contact Cathryn on 086 6042854.

‘This fundraiser is very important,’ said Cathryn. ‘Focus Ireland in the South East needs the funding to develop its services.’

Focus Ireland has been providing homeless in the south east for 17 years. Cathryn said last year, they assisted a total of 109 homeless people in Wexford. ‘About 33 were families including almost 60 children,’ added Cathryn.

The funds raised will help provide essential supplies and support for Focus Ireland.

At the launch of Focus Ireland’s ‘Big Gorey Sleep Out’ taking place on March 23: front, Niamh O’ Leary with her mother and south east region fundraiser, Cathryn O’Leary, and back, Dave Redmond and Rev. Cheryl Patterson.