The Eagle Gazette Vol 5: The Social Section (pages 18 to 19)

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The Social Section

Trinity FLAC and TCDSU Student Sleep-out for the Peter McVerry Trust

On October 18th, Trinity FLAC in association with TCDSU held their fourth annual Sleep-out in aid of the Peter McVerry Trust. Over 20 participants slept in front of Trinity’s Front Arch in an event that had the dual aim of raising funds for the Peter McVerry Trust while also allowing participants an opportunity to show solidarity with the homeless community and to deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by rough sleepers. The event started at 6pm, with participants gathering at Front Arch before dispersing around the college and to Grafton Street with buckets, to collect muchneeded money for the Peter McVerry Trust. The Lord Mayor of Dublin Nial Ring came down on the night to show his support, and we were joined briefly by Trinity Senator David Norris as well. The bucketshaking continued until after 11pm, at which point people began to settle down for the evening. It was a cold night, although thankfully the rain held off and everyone remained dry. It was clear that participants found the experience of sleeping out to be a sobering and challenging one, and that everyone recognised how fortunate they were being able to return home to a hot shower and a comfortable bed after their experience. Lord Mayor Nial Ring invited the Sleep-out participants and organisers to a reception in the Mansion House the following week. At this event, participants were given a tour of the Mansion House and had the opportunity to talk to the Lord Mayor as well as a representative from the Peter McVerry Trust. Trinity FLAC and the TCDSU are very grateful to all those who participated in or donated to the Sleepout. With the housing and homelessness crisis that is currently gripping this country, nobody needs to be reminded of the importance of the work done by charities such as the Peter McVerry Trust each and every day, and we were glad to be able to show our support for this incredibly worthwhile charity. By Caoilainn McDaid