The old adage that ‘a bit of help is better than a lot of pity’ is one a young woman from Maree has put into action with a new project to help the homeless in Galway.

Molly Whelehan has titled the project ‘Marthanóir’, the Irish word for ‘survivor’ and through it, she hopes to provide care kits for as many homeless people as possible over the coming months.

Included in these care kits are sanitary objects, comfort items, educational materials and leisure products which she believes should be the bare minimum anyone should have access to.

The 19-year-old, who completed her Leaving Cert last year at Calasanctius College in Oranmore, says she’s always been affected by the prevalence of homelessness – and this is her way of trying to make a difference.

“Even when I was younger, I was always struck by the amount of homelessness and rough sleeping and I always felt there was nothing I could do about it. But I’ve realised there is always something that everyone can do,” she says.

“I can’t build houses or refurbish vacant houses, but I can buy soap and pens. I can’t completely change a life but hopefully I could make someone’s life a bit easier.”

The Marthanóir project was launched this month with a gig in the Róisín Dubh, and Molly says there has been huge support, ranging from financial donations to offers of cost-price products from local businesses.

Each care kit includes a waterproof rucksack filled with the essentials, says Molly, including soap, toothbrushes, notebooks and pens, hats and scarves – and even dog collars.

Molly, who hopes to study biotechnology and French, said the support “has been nothing short of incredible” with a great turnout at the ticketed launch and more than €3,200 raised on the project’s GoFundMe page.

“Each bag costs around €60,” she says.

On choosing the name, Molly says ‘marthanóir’ felt very appropriate, as it “sounds strong” but also represents the resilience of homeless people.

“Anyone who is going through homelessness or who comes through it has to be a survivor. It’s a strong and powerful thing to do,” she says.

To make a donation, visit Marthanóir Fund on GoFundMe or marthanoir.fund on Instagram.

Pictured: Molly Whelehan…practical help for the homeless.