The family and friends of the late Ann Delaney from Crettyard will undertake a sponsored walk on the morning of Saturday, May 25 to raise funds for the Alice Leahy Trust.
Brothers John and Ciaran Delaney will lead the walk along the Carlow leg of the Columbanus Way which is a 40km walk from the top of Mount Leinster to Carlow town, taking in Myshall, Bagenalstown, Leighlinbridge and Milford.
Ann passed away while sleeping rough in Dublin in February.
She was very well known and liked in Dublin and tributes poured in on social media following news of her passing.
“This walk is in aid of the Alice Leahy Trust in Dublin, a fantastic charity that offers so much assistance to those without permanent shelter in Dublin City,” said John.
“The Alice Leahy Trust is close to the heart of my family as we lost our sister, Ann, in February and the charity was very good to her,” he said.
“Alice and her team were among many volunteers and professionals who worked hard to help Ann.
“Since this charity is funded by public donations, we would love to raise as much money as possible for them.”
John and Ciaran did a sponsored walk two years ago in aid of the Ronald McDonald House.
“Our brother’s little girl was very sick when she was born and her parents availed of accommodation at the Ronald McDonald House, This time we thought it would be appropriate to raise funds for the Alice Leahy Trust in Dublin,” John said.
“The Trust tried very hard to help Ann and has been very good to the family ever since. It is quite a small organisation but it does tremendous work.”
Founded in 1975, the Alice Leahy Trust is a befriending social and health service for people who are homeless.
It provides clothes, footwear, toiletries and shower facilities. Between 30 and 40 men and women call every morning, the majority of whom are sleeping out.
A GoFundMe account has been set up and donations can also be given directly to John, Ciaran and other family members.
SEE ALSO – The hidden epidemic of ‘Problem Gambling’ and how a Laois group is offering support to combat it
