In December, Coláiste Iognáid (‘The Jes’) sixth year students held their annual sleep out in aid of COPE Galway, raising an astounding €15,800.
A milestone event in each students’ final year at the school, they were eager to get involved. This eagerness was further encouraged by their Chaplain, Jerry Sheehan, and following an information session on COPE Galway services held in the school by Ciara McGrath, Community Fundraising Executive with COPE Galway.
The year group spent the first night sleeping in their school hall. At 8am the following day, they were instructed to leave the school, tasked with getting by on the streets of Galway for the day on just €5, equipped with only the clothes they were wearing and a sleeping bag.
“We were excited for the challenge, but it also gave a new perspective of how that would be an everyday occurrence for a person experiencing homelessness. We also realised that the provisions you need – it’s more than just food.”
From 4pm, the students fundraised for COPE Galway through bucket collections, sleeping outdoors that night on the grounds of St. Nicholas’ Church.
Reflecting on the two days, Shay noted:
He also admitted to the novelty of the experience for the student group, knowing “the next night you’re going to be in your own bed was like a crutch”.
Ciara McGrath commended the students on their incredible efforts: “I am really touched by how committed they have all been to raising the money for our services. Sleeping out for two nights is not an easy choice of fundraising event by any means. They should feel very proud of themselves”.
Jerry, Chaplain at ‘The Jes’, shared his pride in the students and his enthusiasm for their sleep out initiative: