CHRISTMAS SHOPPERS on Patrick Street in Cork were treated to a series of surprise events by UCC students over the weekend to mark the 40th anniversary of the local Simon Community.
The Cork Simon Street Mash Up involved impromptu events organised by volunteers from UCC’s live music society, choral society, art society, management and marketing society and the university Simon Community society.
Elaine Doyle, a PhD student in the department of management and marketing, said she wanted to celebrate Cork Simon which has been caring for people in the community for well over 40 years.
“These events were also designed to spark a conversation with those not directly involved with the events and provide a channel through which they could express their support for Cork Simon Community,” she said.
On Saturday, following 40 minutes of music, singing and dance, performers lit candles and joined together creating a sea of light representing individuals who have experienced homelessness.
Thanking the students for volunteering their time and energy, Cork Simon chief executive Dermot Kavanagh, said: “It’s wonderful to see young people giving freely of their time.
“These students are showing they believe in people and are helping to keep hope alive for the most marginalised and isolated people in society,” he said.
The Cork Simon Street Mash Up also had a big online presence. Brightly coloured signs called for passers-by to “join in the conversation online” and displayed the Cork Simon Facebook and Twitter online identities to spur engagement.