Homelessness charity calls on Cork people to sign up for Camino challenge

Focus Ireland is encouraging people in Cork to sign up for its Camino challenge as the number of children and families in emergency accommodation in the south-west continues to rise.

There were 101 families with 209 children accessing emergency accommodation in Cork and Kerry at the end of June.

Focus Ireland is aiming to have 20 walkers complete the Camino Portuguese Coastal route. The trip will take place from September 25 to October 2 this year, starting in the town of Oia and walking to the historic city of Santiago. The fully guided trek will bring the group along 120km of the Portuguese coastal route and includes five walking days of varying distances and elevation.

Each participant is asked to raise €3,000 and all logistics including flights, accommodation, transfers, breakfast, dinner and guides are managed and organised by Focus Ireland.

Support 

Conor Culkin, communications officer with Focus Ireland, said that they support hundreds of people in Cork: “Focus Ireland has been based in Cork since 2007, and our work has grown significantly.

“We now provide over 200 homes across the city and county through developments by Focus Housing Association in close partnership with local authorities.

“Alongside this, our dedicated teams support more households through housing services and our Tenancy Support and Settlement service.

“However, the need remains urgent. With over 660 adults currently homeless in Cork, the demand on services is immense. These figures are a stark reminder that while progress is being made, much more needs to be done to ensure everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.”

There are just a small number of places remaining for the Focus Ireland Camino challenge. Anyone interested in taking part in this year’s trip is asked to register by August 22 at https://www.focusireland.ie/event-and- challenges/camino-walk/.

Extra special

Lorraine Toner, head of national community fundraising with Focus Ireland, added: “The deadline to sign up for this year’s Camino trip is fast approaching. This year promises to be extra special as we will be joined by broadcaster and health coach Clare McKenna.

"It is an opportunity to meet new people, to push yourselves and more importantly to raise vital funds to end homelessness. We will do everything we can to make sure participants reach their target and there is complete flexibility with how you choose to fundraise.”