Dublin Simon launch 12 Challenges of Christmas

Dublin Simon Community has launched their ’12 Challenges of Christmas’ to help make up for an expected 50 per cent fundraising shortfall due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Like most charities, the bulk of the homeless service provider’s fundraising income is generated over the Christmas period, with 50 per cent of this revenue coming from special events which cannot take place due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Community & Events Manager, James Phelan said that as most of the organisation’s Christmas activity is based around singing and music, they are in a particularly difficult situation this Christmas.

“Every year, dozens of choirs and singing groups host ‘Sing for Simon’ carolling fundraisers for us in their local communities. Many Dubliners will have passed our annual 24-hour Carolathon on Grafton Street as they’ve made their way to Christmas parties or to do some Christmas shopping.

“The scientific evidence on singing and coronavirus transmission means we simply cannot host these events safely this year. While we are looking into virtual and video alternatives, it is a huge blow. We have launched the 12 Challenges of Christmas campaign to try to make up the fundraising shortfall from our dozens of cancelled Christmas events and would really appreciate all the support we can get.”

Simon’s ’12 Challenges of Christmas’ is a series of fundraising tasks participants can take on in a safe and socially distant way throughout the month of December. Try one, three or even twelve! Do as many as you’d like and host where, how and whenever you like – the choice is completely up to you.

If you would like to support people experiencing homelessness this Christmas, please make a donation to www.dubsimon.ie.