Drogheda and North East/Monaghan Samaritans are marking Samaritans Awareness Day (24 July) with a new silent-fundraiser campaign inspired by a caller who says the service “helped me through the darkest moments”. Volunteers will run an information stand in Monaghan Shopping Centre from 10 am to 3 pm on the day, encouraging the public to try a 24-hour challenge and to reach out for help whenever they need it.
Nathan Green, 22, credits Samaritans with guiding him through a difficult period:
Sometimes I called in tears, other times just needing someone to listen. I never felt judged—only supported.
Nathan’s successful 24-hour sponsored silence last year has sparked this July’s ‘Shush for Samaritans’—one of four nationwide 24-hour challenges (alongside gaming, crafting and a Taylor Swift music marathon) designed to raise funds for Samaritans’ free, round-the-clock helpline 116 123.
Branch Director Margaret Fahey says the date is pivotal:
We want to get the message out that Samaritans are here 24 hours a day for anyone in crisis and struggling to cope.
Funds raised support the 24 Samaritans branches across Ireland and Northern Ireland, including Monaghan, which will host the awareness stand in Monaghan Shopping Centre on Thursday, 24 July. Visitors can learn about the 24-hour challenges, donate, or sign up as volunteers.
Samaritans emphasise that anyone can call 116 123 free from any phone, email [email protected], or visit samaritans.ie for confidential support at any time, day or night.
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Register or donate: samaritans.ie/24hours
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Volunteer enquiries: samaritans.ie/volunteer