Mayo soccer club supporting Pieta on traditional Darkness Into Light weekend

NEXT Saturday, over 200,000 people would have come together across the world for Darkness Into Light, walking together in support of Pieta and its work against suicide and self-harm.

With the Covid-19 pandemic having sidelined the event for now, one Mayo football club, Kiltimagh Knock United, is teaming up with Pieta to raise funds for the organisation this weekend.

The football boots may be resting, but to mark the relaunch of the club's online lotto, proceeds from the KK 50/50 draw on Sunday, May 10, will be donated to Pieta.

You can show your support here: https://www.lottoraiser.ie/KiltimaghKnock/.

Club chairman Martin Canny explained: “As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, mental health is a concern for many people in all our communities and the need for the services provided by Pieta has never been greater.

“As a club we are delighted to support the life-saving work of Pieta by donating proceeds from our May 10 and also our May 31 draws to the organisation.”

Darkness Into Light is a huge annual fundraiser for Pieta and the club appeal for your support, which is more vital than ever.

The Covid-19 has seen increased numbers of calls to the Pieta helpline from people all over the country.

Pieta and Electric Ireland invite everyone to show community and solidarity with those impacted by suicide by getting up at 5.30 a.m. on May 9 to watch the sunrise from their homes. You can share your sunrise moment using #DILSunriseAppeal #DIL2020.

Pieta has 15 centres across Ireland, offering free counselling to those suffering from suicidal ideation and to people who are engaging in self-harm. Pieta also operates a suicide bereavement counselling service.

The Pieta Resilience Academy is an initiative to teach school going children positive mental health techniques and strategies.

Pieta's free 24-hour suicide helpline can be contacted at 1800 247 247.