156 people took part in 2018's Sleep Out for Simon and in swapping their beds for sleeping bags across the City & County they helped to raise an outstanding 84,402. This was a significant achievement for all involved and truly shows the power of what can be realised when people in our community come together. This combined generosity directly supported 239 individuals and families at risk of, or experiencing homelessness in Galway.

Some of the tangible projects these funds allowed for include; the fit out of 8 long term community based houses and apartments, the provision of practical assistance and essential supports such as food, heating, and electricity for almost 100 households at risk of losing their homes, and the running costs of a drop-in Resource Centre in East County Galway.

Preventing Homelessness through Sleep Out 2019

Building on these real and lasting accomplishments, this year we are aiming to raise 90,000 to help further extend the reach of City & County based prevention services.

With the private rental sector here in Galway continuing to spiral out of control and an ever widening gap between housing support limits and market rent prices there is an urgent need to continue to ensure that preventative measures are in place.

Galway Simon's Homelessness Prevention Services include a Community Support Team, a dedicated Youth Service, a specialist Women and Family Service as well as a drop in resource centre in East County Galway.

To meet the ever-increasing need for these essential services, with your help we plan to;

1. Provide a minimum of 4 additional accommodation spaces in Galway Simon's Youth Service and to strengthen the presence of our community outreach support service dedicated to supporting young people at risk of homelessness

2. Support the fit out of additional community based houses Galway Simon are planning to acquire in 2019 & 2020 providing a secure home for those currently experiencing homelessness in the City & County

3. Fund the running costs for Simon's Resource centre service East Galway to enable us to support the growing number of individuals and families accessing these services.

Join us on Friday 4th of October and together we will step up in support of those who need our help. To register, or for more information, visit galwaysimon.ie