Crinkill native bringing warmth to the homeless

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Crinkill native Stephen Mahon is on a mission to bring some warmth to the homeless population this Christmas season.

Stephen has been fundraising to provide essential items for homeless people such as socks, hats, gloves, blankets and jackets.

Having initially set a target of €1,000, the personal trainer far exceeded his expectations by raising over €2,520 in just under two weeks since the fundraiser was set up.

“This is something I've done three or four time this year already,” Stephen said. “I go into somewhere like Penneys and spend money on socks, gloves, and caps – and I go around Dublin and hand them out to homeless people.”

Giving an example of what he can get for the money donated, Stephen said: “Today I spent €103, which got me 20 pairs of socks, eight pairs of gloves, and eight caps which is a huge amount which will go a long way.”

When asked how he first came up with the idea, Stephen said it was simply the right thing to do.

"Anytime I was in Dublin I’d give them whatever small change I had in my pocket," Stephen said. "I went to Dublin and I saw these people and literally walked into Penneys.

"The first time I just got 10 pairs of socks and 10 hats, and gave them out. With how much they appreciated it, I thought it really meant to lot to someone to get something like socks that we take for granted."

The 32-year old said that as well as the essential items, people are also extremely grateful that he stops to talk to them.

“I think more so what they appreciate is that you talk to them. I give them the option - you don't want to insult them by telling them what they need.”

The Crinkill man is heading back to Dublin on December 21 with several of his friends to give the essential items bought to homeless people on the streets of the capital city - and it looks like he will have a lot more to give thanks to the generosity of his community.

To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/pagb3-homelessness