Pieta House has launched a fresh fundraising appeal following the postponement of its annual Darkness into Light.
The event, which is the charity's main yearly source of funding, due to take place on May 9 has been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Over 250,000 people across the country were expected to take part in the event for Pieta, which helps those engaging from self-harm or suicide ideation.
However, organisers are urging the public to take part in the new Darkness Into Light ‘Sunrise’ event.
Participants will get up at 5.30am to watch the sunrise and to show community and solidarity with those impacted by suicide.
Electric Ireland and Pieta is now appealing for donations so the charity can continue to carry out its vital work.
Elaine Austin, CEO of Pieta said: “As a result of Covid-19, our helpline has seen an increase in calls from people all over the country who are in crisis right now with many others presenting with high anxiety.
"Our bereavement counsellors are supporting people who have lost loved ones and who are struggling to come to terms with their loss in a world where friends and family cannot grieve together as a result of the lockdown.
"Funding from the public has never been more vital to keep Pieta’s door open. The Darkness Into Light walk will hopefully take place later in the year, but we can’t wait - we’re urgently asking people to donate, whatever they can.
"This will help fund our services, ensuring we can continue to support those in their darkest hours and to keep delivering our one-to-one counselling.
"While we are devastated that we won’t come together physically on May 9th, we will share a special moment of togetherness by getting up at 5:30am and watching the sunrise.
"We would also appreciate if people can wear yellow or a previous year’s t-shirt that day to show support for those impacted by suicide.”
Pieta is also asking people to spread the message and offer hope by sharing their sunrise moment using the #DIL2020.
Donate to the cause by clicking here.
