Galway Samaritans celebrating 50th anniversary

GALWAY Samaritans are looking to hear from past volunteers and friends, as they look to celebrate their 50-year anniversary.

The Samaritans Galway branch alone averages about 2,700 calls per month.

It is estimated that over one thousand members have passed through their doors as volunteers throughout the years. They are hopeful as many as possible will join the Galway Samaritans as they reminisce and celebrate half a century of accomplishments.

The celebration is fixed for September 5 from 2pm to 6pm. Past volunteers should register by emailing publicity@galwaysamaritans.ie.

“While it’s more important than ever to raise awareness about mental health, we also must honour those who have given their free time week after week to provide this invaluable service to the community,” said a spokesperson.

“Our vision is to reduce the number of people dying by suicide, and we work toward this by understanding and challenging the social elements that impact mental health as we have done for the last 50 years.”

The Samaritans are available 24/7. Freephone 116123, email jo@samaritans.ie, or visit samaritans.ie.