Community
7K walk to celebrate Samaritans Awareness Day
Samaritans 7K Walk – There was an incredible turnout for the event, with many locals and spectators joining the Samaritans on their charity stroll, including ambassador Pat Shortt
The Samaritans provide emotional support to those in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide
By I Love Limerick correspondent Ava O’Donoghue
Volunteers around the country came together on Sunday, July 24 for the Samaritans 7K Walk to mark Samaritans Awareness Day and remind people that they are available to listen 24/7.
Limerick volunteers walked along the three bridges trail, starting at King John’s Castle. There was an incredible turnout for the event, with many locals and spectators joining the Samaritans on their charity stroll. Actor and Samaritan’s ambassador Pat Shortt also participated in the full 7K walk.
An outreach table was on hand for people to find out what the Samaritans offer, how to become a volunteer or how to donate. A registered charity, Samaritans was established in 1961 and has 21 branches across Ireland, with over 2,000 active volunteers. The Samaritans provide emotional support to those in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide.
They work 24 hours a day to provide help to those in need, not only in moments of crisis but also to prevent the crisis in the first place. Samaritans are available day and night for anyone who is having difficulty coping or needs a listening ear without judgement or pressure.
“Thanks to all that showed support and helped organise the event to make it a great success. A special thank you to Katie Daly’s for supplying the much-needed burgers, they were amazing,” Will Martin, Publicity Officer for Samaritans Limerick/Tipperary said.
“Our ambassador Pat Shortt joined us for the full day, and I can’t say enough about him. In everything that we have asked of him, we have been met with only a willingness to help.
“It’s been a challenging few years for everyone, and we know that many people are still facing all kinds of pressure, however, we want to remind the public that they are not alone. It doesn’t matter how great or small the problems feel, our volunteers are here at any time of day or night.”
To donate to the Limerick/Tipperary Branch of Samaritans go HERE
For more stories about Samaritans go HERE