Cork Simon to host fundraising ball

It’s time to get your glad rags on or get suited and booted!

That's because Cork Simon’s Annual Fundraising Ball is making a welcome return after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. It is the 20th anniversary ball marking 50 years of Cork Simon Community.

The fundraising ball will take place on 6 May at the Fota Island Resort and will raise funds for Cork Simon Community’s work with people experiencing homelessness.

Dr Dermot Kavanagh, CEO Cork Simon said: “Now, more than ever, support is critical to ensure that Cork’s homeless community have the best care available. We have never seen such demand on homelessness services. Our much-needed and essential services remained operational throughout Covid-19-related restrictions and lockdowns. We couldn’t have done that without the tremendous support from the people of Cork.

“None of our work would be possible without that generosity and goodwill. We’re delighted to be able to again host our annual fundraising ball - it’s a key contributor each year to our work supporting people turning to us for help.”

The ball returns as the number of men and women in emergency accommodation in Cork increased by 20 per cent in the 12 months to February, and by seven per cent in one month.

Donal Downey, Chairperson of the voluntary Fundraising Ball Committee said: “Cork Simon supported over 1,000 people last year. There were 491 men and women in emergency accommodation in Cork in February 2022 – the highest monthly figure since Department of Housing first started publishing the monthly data in December 2014.”

“We are delighted to welcome Colm O’Regan to host the ball this year, Jonathan Healy as MC and we are particularly looking forward to the auction on the night,” according to Donal Downey.

“Whether you’re at the ball or not, everyone has the opportunity to bid on our unique, money can’t buy prizes! Anyone can bid on auction prizes at app.galabid.com/simon22,” he concluded.