Pieta to open in- person support service in Dundalk

Pieta House have announced that they will soon be launching a new in-person support service at the Redeemer Family Resource Centre in Dundalk.

The announcement comes following news last week that Dundalk’s Darkness into Light organising committee had decided to cancel this year's event after growing frustrated with the lack of progress in getting a physical presence for Pieta in Louth.

The Dundalk Darkness into Light Walk will now go ahead as planned on the morning of Saturday May 11th.

Pieta expects to open the service in September 2024, pending completion of the necessary logistics and staffing arrangements.

In a statement Pieta said the move showed their commitment to enhancing services for people in Louth in suicidal distress or engaging in self-harm, adding:

“This has involved considerable work by many people over a number of months, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved.

“Pieta relies on our generous supporters to fund our services, and 100% of the funding for this service comes from donations.

“We remain committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of our services.

“We'll keep working closely with our four Louth Darkness into Light committees, local community, authorities, and the HSE to help ensure the long-term viability of this resource.

We continue to offer a variety of supports in Louth via phone and online counselling services, as well as having a local Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officer.

“We're also working with children throughout the county through our school programmes.

“For immediate assistance, our crisis helpline is available 24/7 at 1800 247 247.

“Those seeking therapy can contact us at 0818 111 126, and schools interested in our resilience and well-being programs can reach out to us at amberflag@pieta.ie and resilience@pieta.ie.”

“We're grateful to the people of Louth, our dedicated volunteers, the four hardworking Darkness into Light committees in Louth, the Redeemer Family Resource Centre and the local HSE .

“Your steadfast support is vital in our mission to reduce suicide and self-harm nationwide and support those affected by suicide.”
Commenting on the news, Event Director with Dundalk’s Darkness into Light Committee, Sean Kelly posted on Facebook:

“Seven years of hard work has paid off, Dundalk is getting an in-person support service from Pieta at the Redeemer Resource Centre.

“Another vital service for mental health is being delivered for the town.

“Darkness into Light started here in Dundalk as a conversation between a couple of friends one night seven years ago in the Crowne Plaza.

“Now we have delivered for the town. It’s a proud day. Thank you to all our committee members, both past and present, the volunteers, our sponsors and you, our supporters, who have been with us every year.

“Dundalk is at its best when people come together.

“Hope is finally home.”