THIS year’s Letterkenny Darkness into Light will be held in the grounds of ATU for the first time to mark the 10th anniversary of the event in Letterkenny.
The launch of Darkness into Light 2023 was hosted by the DIL Letterkenny Committee on Thursday evening and a large crowd attended.
The fundraising event, which was first held in Letterkenny in summer 2013, attracts thousands of people to take part in a 5k walk or run at sunrise while fundraising for Pieta.
This year’s event will take place at 4.15am on the morning of Saturday May 6, in over 200 locations in Ireland and across the world.
In Donegal, Darkness into Light will take place in 13 locations this year – Carrick, Carrigart, Narin/Portnoo, Ballybofey and Stranorlar, Letterkenny, Rathmullan, Arranmore Island, Buncrana, Bundoran, Carndonagh, Donegal Town, Gaoth Dobhair, and Tory Island.
Speaking following the launch, PRO Karen Quinn said, “We as a committee are honoured to have held the regional launch of Darkness into Light in Donegal, which will take place on Saturday May 6.
“To mark its ten year anniversary in Letterkenny, this year we have teamed up with ATU Donegal who have kindly agreed for us to host the event at their university.
“Each year we are always overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our community, who always find the most unique and innovative ways to support an event that brings people together in a representation of compassion and solidarity,” said Ms Quinn.
Pieta provides life-saving support services for those in suicidal distress and for those who have been bereaved through suicide.
The walks will begin in darkness at sunrise and continue through to dawn to symbolise the journey from despair to hope.
Walks will also take place globally.
A spokesperson for the event said, “Pieta is 80 per cent funded by fundraising events like Darkness Into Light.
“Without our Darkness Into Light supporters, Pieta couldn’t provide vital services to people impacted by suicide and self-harm for free.”
Darkness into Light is a global movement dedicated to raising funds for Pieta’s life-saving services. People in Donegal hoping to take part are asked to register before the end of the month to ensure they receive a T-shirt.
To avail of Pieta services, visit www.pieta.ie or call 0818111126. Pieta provides 24/7 support via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247 or text help to 51444.
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