Firefighters from across the city and county are giving up their beds for one night to participate in the Sleep Out for Simon this Friday night.

Galway Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Galway City, Loughrea, Athenry, Mountbellew, An Cheathrú Rua and Clifden are joining the sponsored Sleep Out in a bid to raise awareness and show solidarity with those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

The local Fire and Rescue services will swap their beds and home comforts for sleeping bags on the street, to experience what hundreds experience on a daily basis and to raise much-needed funds for local charity Galway Simon Community.

“We’re lucky to work with people across our communities on a daily basis and we’re constantly amazed and heartened by the generosity of all those who participate in this event,” said Galway City Firefighter Brendan Creedon.

“Unfortunately, we also see why the need for services like Galway Simon are so prevalent, with the rising number of homelessness in our communities. It’s frightening how many people, especially families, are being forced into homelessness and are powerless to stop it.

“We’re only giving up our bed for one night and that’s by choice so we can come together to make a difference and help those who are struggling in our communities.

“We are encouraging people to get behind us and support those who turn to Galway Simon for help when they have nowhere else to go,” he added.

If you would like to sponsor the firefighters’ Sleep Out, you can go to their iDonate page on https://www.idonate.ie/team/galwayfireandrescueservice.

You can find out more about the Sleep Out or make a donation at www.galwaysimon.ie or by phoning 091 381828.

Pictured: Galway City Fire Station Firefighters taking part in the Sleep Out for Simon (from left) Brendan Creedon, Kenny McNamara, John McGauley, Billy Cleary, Station Officer Frankie Dolan, Sub-Station Officer Darren Reynolds, Mark Folan and Ray Rohan) Photo: Boyd Challenger