Each year the 24th day of the 7th month sees awareness campaigns and fundraising events for the 24/7 services of the Samaritans. This year The East Coast Samaritans received a boost in funding and awareness through the herculean efforts of Paul Sutton of Deck’s Coffee Shop.
A crowd begins to gather to be with Paul to show "You are not alone with Samaritans"
Paul’s incredible feat of cycling 200k in one day shows immense dedication and community spirit. His fundraising and awareness campaign have made a huge positive impact on the Arklow branch of Samaritans.
With support from Jen from Genuine fitness we had the use of three spin bikes. Paul’s task was arduous but he was not alone for any of it. Volunteers, community members, and even a local member of an Garda Siochana were on hand to cycle alongside him. Garda Therese Kelly put in a very respectable 10k to add support to Paul’s mission.
We are so grateful to each and every person who supported Paul by cycling beside him, donating to the cause, or showing up on the day. Two supporters in particular: Stephen and Chloe cycled 60km alongside Paul.
Michaela face painting a child at 24/7
We are especially grateful to Michaela who entertained the younger supporters with her excellent face painting!
We are also very grateful to the local businesses who donated spot prizes to our raffle: Topline Boland’s, Mary B’s off license, Arklow Photo and Framing, as well as the very generous volunteers who donated prizes.
Charlie Bird giving Paul a supportive message of encouragement
Very special thank you to Mr Charlie Bird whose generous shout out helped to boost awareness of the day – we are so grateful and very honoured by his support for the work our volunteers do at Samaritans.
24/7 2023 was a great success thanks to the efforts of everybody combined, but it is safe to say Paul Sutton went above and beyond for Samaritans.
We would like to thank Alvina from Arklow Municipal District for changing the lights on the bridge and bandstand to green for 24/7. We would also like to thank Siobhan from St. Mary's & Peter's Church for changing the belfry to green to mark Samaritans awareness day.
Arklow Bridge, bandstand and Main Street Church go green
“What started out as a fundraising and awareness event, turned into a community fundraiser and awareness event. It really was heart warming to get such great support on the day and it just goes to show that anything can be achieved with the right support.
Always remember that we at Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123 for anyone at anytime they need support.”