The Cycledelics for Irish Refugee Council

Hello everyone and thanks for checking out our fundraiser. I want to let you know about our bicycle adventure for a good cause!  On the 29th of July Stefano 'gooch of steel' Forte, Luke ' iron glutes ' Mannion and Jack ' golden calves ' Farrelly will set off from Bray on our bikes. We will ride down the coast clockwise and follow the rugged coastline in an attempt to circumnavigate the beautiful island of Ireland, approx. 2500km, in 30 days. Enough about us though ! This trip is a great opportunity to raise money for people in need. Something we feel strongly about is helping refugees who flee persecution in their country with the hope of better lives on our shores. When you step back,breathe and think about it most Irish people have it pretty easy on a day to day basis. We think it's very important to share what we have and help where we can. The Irish Refugee Council do fantastic work and it was inspiring researching them for this fundraiser. https://www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie/   Their website will do a whole lot better job of explaining what they do than me, but speaking to representatives this is a some of how your money can help. Housing:  The Irish Refugee Council have long fought for the improvement and ultimately the end of Direct Provision where the challenges asylum seekers face are well documented.   Although government have recently made steps toward ending Direct Provision, it is imperative that DP is replaced with a sound housing policy centred on a not for profit approach. The Irish Refugee Council’s Housing Programme assists people in overcoming these barriers by providing direct housing support and accommodation. Seventeen properties, donated to our programme by religious congregations, civil societies and members of the public, are sub-leased to individuals and families, providing them with a secure and affordable tenancy for a guaranteed period of time. During this time, the individual or family members receive further integration supports from the IRC including English language training, education and employment, which assist with deeper integration. After this period of assistance and stability outside of the Direct Provision system, people are more empowered and better positioned to move independently into the private rental market.  Education access:  Education plays an empowering role in people's development, self-esteem and integration. It is also an investment in our future, in our country, in our progress. People seeking protection in Ireland also face a significant barrier of non-recognition of their previous qualifications.  Your support could broaden access to higher education for people in the protection process. For just €250 euro we can cover a person’s course fees as well as assist with their transport or course material costs.      Law Centre: The Law Centre provides legal representation to people seeking protection in Ireland. We also help people reunite with their families. No child should be needlessly alone, separated from their families when it is within all of our power to reunite them. Your support will allow prepare applications for family reunification, organise evidence and prepare housing, schooling and other supports ahead of the family’s arrival.  Employment: Employment not only helps to provide financial stability, it also provides a sense of purpose and belonging, nurturing connection to community  The lack of knowledge of the Irish labour market and recruitment processes, non-recognition of prior work experience and/or qualifications, and limited English language skills pose a significant challenge to finding work often, which is compounded by the experience of ‘institutionalisation’ under the Direct Provision system. The situation for women is further exacerbated due to the lack of sufficient childcare supports.  Please help out by donating what you can, or not, but you probably should ,you know yourself. All donations welcome however big or small don't be shy all welcome. Give us some extra inspiration on our journey! All donations go directly to the Irish Refugee Council. Big thanks to the sensational Kate O'Loughlin for the poster! Lots of Love, Forte, Mano and Farlo xoxo