One night outdoors to help build community and make a difference!
The Student Sleep Out is more than a fundraiser, it's a powerful act of solidarity with the people who experience homelessness in our community.
By taking part in the Student Sleep Out for COPE Galway, students are invited to spend one night sleeping outdoors (or in a school or community centre) and raise much needed funds for COPE Galway's homeless service. It is a chance for students to step out of their comfort zone and better understand the harsh realities faced by many everyday.
It’s meaningful. It’s manageable. And it’s something students will never forget.
By taking part, students will:
- build empathy and awareness of homelessness
- step into their roles as socially conscious members of our local community.
- Raise vital funds to help those impacted by homelessness.
Every euro raised helps COPE Galway continue their work - providing shelter, support and hope to individuals and families impacted by homelessness throughout Galway City and County.
Help us change lives. Register your interest to take part in the Student Sleep Out now.
Register your interest!
Get in touch
Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you would like some further information, or fill in the form and someone will be in touch!
Ciara McGrath
cmcgrath@copegalway.ie
085 800 6481
FAQ's
What’s involved in a Sleep Out?
A Sleep Out is a simple fundraising initiative - students spend one night sleeping outdoors, or in a school hall or community space. Our team provide guidance on making the event safe, structured and impactful. All funds raised go towards supporting COPE Galway's Homeless Service.
How will COPE Galway's fundraising team support my Sleep Out?
- Guidance on planning and safety
- Fundraising tips and materials
- A talk with students from our team about homelessness in Galway and how the funds raised will help those in our services
Can a Sleep Out bring real change?
Yes! Many schools have already made the Sleep Out a meaningful and educational tradition.
Just ask the students at Coláiste Iognáid in Galway, where the 6th years have taken part every year for over a decade, raising an incredible €62,416 to date. The annual fundraiser has become one of the most impactful events in their school calendar.
“Anyone who takes part will get a new perspective on what it's like to sleep rough and what the reality is for all the people who do it every day.”
— 6th Year Student, Jes Sleep Out 2023
Whether it’s your school’s first time or you're continuing a tradition, taking part in a Sleep Out is a powerful way for students to support those impacted by homelessness.
What do I need to consider when organising the event?
Organising a Student Sleep Out is easier than you might think. We have put together a comprehensive 'How To Guide' which outlines each of the steps involved in making your Sleep Out happen. Check it out in the Resources hub.
Student Sleep Out Resources:
We have put together some helpful resources to help get you started with your Student Sleep Out, including some tips and ideas to make your event as impactful as possible.
Student Sleep Out Resources
we have put together some helpful resources to help you get started with your Sleep Out, and to get some ideas for your event!
COPE Galway is a local charity providing essential social services in Galway. we have been improving lives and strengthening communities for 60 years.
We respond to the needs of people experiencing homelessness, women and children subjected to domestic abuse, and we support older people towards healthy, independent ageing.
COPE Galway is deeply woven into the fabric of the Galway community. Our work is built on a foundation of community spirit and the beilief that together, we can make a positive difference for people during challenging times in their lives.
