16 Darkness Into Light events to take place across Northern Ireland this May

14 mental health and suicide prevention charities in Northern Ireland will benefit from Darkness Into Light this year as the annual fundraising event organised by Pieta, is back.

Proudly supported by Electric Ireland, the event will take place as the sun rises on Saturday 7th May 2022.

There will be 16 Darkness Into Light events running across Northern Ireland. Beginning in darkness at sunrise and continuing for 5km through to dawn, the walk symbolises the journey from despair to hope.

In recent years, up to 200,000 people gathered around the globe for this very worthwhile cause which began back in 2009 with just 400 people walking through Dublin’s Phoenix Park in solidarity with those experiencing dark times.

This year, people in every county in Northern Ireland are encouraged to sign up to participate.

The organisers are reminding participants that by simply signing up to the event, they are making a valuable contribution to helping raise funds for life-saving work in therapy and intervention services for those impacted by suicide.

Speaking on the importance of the event in supporting the ongoing work that Pieta and its partner charities undertake, Rachel Murphy Fundraising and Marketing Director for the organisation said, “In the last year, Pieta as well as each of our partner charities in Northern Ireland and across the world, have seen increased demand for the services we provide.”

She continued by saying that “Darkness into Light is vital for fundraising, for raising awareness and for bringing people together across the globe in the spirit of solidarity, comfort, and compassion to help people at a very local level. Social connection is the heartbeat of what we do, so we are delighted to have our organised events back this May.”

Electric Ireland Sponsorship Specialist, Anne Smyth, reflected on the importance of the event noting the uplifting affect it has on all those who take part in it, “At Electric Ireland we believe we are brighter together, nowhere is this truer or more obvious than at dawn on the morning on which Darkness Into Light takes place.

“This very special event undoubtedly touches everyone who takes part, harnessing the power of coming together and bringing hope to those most in need. We are, as always, immensely proud to support Pieta and its partner charities in the delivery of Darkness Into Light and are delighted that once again, we are finally able to gather in person with the return of the organised events.”

Whether it’s walking, running, hiking, or sharing their sunrise over a hot cuppa with family and friends, this is a great opportunity for people all around the world to come together with a renewed energy and a sense of purpose; to make a big difference and to be a light against the dark.

If you would like to sign up now visit darknessintolight.com

Find your nearest Darkness Into Light event 👇

If you can’t make it on Saturday 7th May, you can still wear your yellow t-shirt and do your own walk or challenge at any time that suits you. All the funds you raise will support those impacted by suicide and self-harm.

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