The Argus

Dundalk hosting first ‘Darkness Into Light’ walk

- By OLIVIA RYAN

The launch of Dundalk’s first ever ‘Darkness Into Light’ walk was held at Market Square last weekend.

Darkness into Light is a unique, early morning experience which begins in darkness at 4.15am as thousands of people walk or run a five kilometre route while dawn is breaking.

The early dawn represents hope and is symbolic of the work of Pieta House; bringing people from darkness back into the light.

In 2016, over 130,000 people took part in over 50 venues across Ireland. Dundalk will host its very own Darkness into Light for the first time in 2017 with Dundalk Institute of Technology being selected as the venue.

Speaking at the launch at the Market Square on Saturday, Event Director for Dundalk, Seán Kelly, said ‘Darkness Into Light is a people’s event organised by local committees all over the country and luckily this year a group of volunteers have got together in Dundalk to organise it.

It’s a fantastic opportunit­y to raise much needed funds for an issue that affects so many lives especially here in Dundalk.

While suicide is a devastatin­g tragedy, we must not forget that there is hope, there is help, and Pieta House will be there to provide both.’

The campaign is a vital fundraiser for Pieta House as demand for the service continues to grow. With more than 80% of Pieta House’s income depending on public donations, funds raised during Darkness into Light are essential for Pieta House to continue to provide a free service for the increasing numbers seeking help. To register to take part please visit dil.pieta.ie/ event-informatio­n/venues/dundalk

 ??  ?? Sean Kelly, Sarah McClancy, Orla Sheridan and Johan Crawford at the launch of the “Darkness into Light” campaign.
Sean Kelly, Sarah McClancy, Orla Sheridan and Johan Crawford at the launch of the “Darkness into Light” campaign.

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