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Weighted Walk

The Depaul Weighted Walk is a powerful initiative where participants carry a weighted backpack, physically representing the heavy burdens carried by people experiencing homelessness.

In July 2026,  across the Republic of Ireland, official figures recorded 17,527 people in emergency accommodation, comprising 11,868 adults and 5,659 children.

In Northern Ireland, there are currently 64,417 individuals experiencing homelessness, with over 4800 children living in temporary accommodation.

Every Weighted Walk raises vital funds for Depaul to provide emergency accommodation, mental health support, and wraparound services.

Grab a pack, carry the weight, and change the story.

What We Do

At Depaul Ireland, we provide vital support to men, women, and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. When you participate in the Weighted Walk, the funds raised directly support our frontline services across Ireland:

  • Prevention: Stopping homelessness before it begins through early intervention, tenancy protection, and dedicated community outreach.
  • Emergency & Supported Housing: Providing safe, immediate shelter and long-term accommodation for individuals and families in crisis.
  • Mental Health & Harm Reduction Services: Delivering specialist support, counselling, and care to help people manage trauma and recover safely.
  • Community Integration & Life Skills: Rebuilding independence through training, employment support, and life skills like budgeting and cooking.
  • Families & Young People: Providing dedicated support to keep families together and prevent young people from entering homelessness.

How You Can Support

Taking part is simple, flexible, and open to individuals, workplace teams, and schools across Ireland.

Follow the steps below, or download our comprehensive “How to Guide” below.

How to Guide

1. Set Up Your Walk

  • Pick Your Distance & Route: Walk a manageable distance (typically 2-5km) in your local park, around your workplace, or on school grounds.
  • Pack Your Weight: Fill a rucksack with books, clothes, or tins to reach a safe weight (e.g., 2-5 kg depending on age group).
  • Carry What You Can’t Leave Behind: Pack one personal item a favourite book, photo, or toy to represent what home means to you.

2. Rally Your Group or School

  • Schools & Youth Groups: Register your school to receive branded orange drawstring bags, lesson plans, educational materials, and access to our nationwide school leaderboard.

  • Community & Workplace Groups: Walk together with friends, family, or colleagues to raise awareness in your local community.

3. Fundraise & Change the Story

  • Donate & Raise Funds: Set up an online fundraising page or collect a simple contribution (e.g., €/£5 per participant for school walks) on the day.

  • Spread the Word: Share your walk photos on social media or in your community newsletters using the hashtag #WeightedWalkIE to amplify awareness

Ready to step up?

Contact Chris from the community engagement and events team at fundraising@depaulcharity.net, who would be happy to provide more information and register you for this activity.

Can’t take part? You can still show your support by donating below.

Donate Now