No More Cold Streets: Dublin Simon Community calls on public to give warmth and hope this Christmas 

Dublin, November 9th 2026: Dublin Simon Community is calling on the public to come together in support of those experiencing homelessness this winter, as it launches its Christmas 2026 campaign, No More Cold Streets. Give Warmth. Give Hope. Give Now.   

With nearly 18,000 people living in emergency accommodation nationwide, and seven in ten of those experiencing homelessness in emergency accommodation based in Dublin, the charity is urging the public to help provide warmth, safety and support to people facing homelessness during the coldest months of the year.  

It takes a community to end homelessness. This year’s Campaign brings together musicians, artists, volunteers, businesses and supporters through a programme of fundraising events, partnerships and community initiatives throughout November and December. This includes one of the most anticipated Christmas events of the year, the Dublin Simon Christmas Eve Busk, which is led by famous Irish singer and songwriter, Mundy.  

Dublin Simon Community is delighted to confirm the return of the Dublin Simon Christmas Eve Busk to Grafton Street on 24 December. Now in its 16th year, the Busk has become one of Dublin’s most beloved Christmas traditions, bringing together some of Ireland’s best-known musicians in support of those experiencing homelessness.  

Irish singer and songwriter, Mundy will lead this year’s event alongside The Coronas frontman Danny O’Reilly, Imelda May, and many more. This year’s Busk will also provide a special opportunity for musicians and supporters to come together to remember and celebrate the late Glen Hansard and his longstanding commitment to Dublin Simon Community. 

Launching this year’s festivities, Catherine Kenny, CEO of Dublin Simon Community, said: 

“Whilst this year’s Busk will feel different, we are delighted to see its return to Grafton Street in what will be an evening full of remembrance and hope. Christmas is a special time of year, full of warmth and spirit, but it’s also a hard time for so many without safety, shelter or support. Right now, we are in the worst homeless crisis ever in Ireland, and fundraising is more important than ever. Every donation, fundraiser, volunteer and supporter helps Dublin Simon act when it matters most.” 

Back by popular demand, the Sing for Simon Christmas Concert with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra returns to The Helix, Dublin, on 6 December. The evening features an array of well-known special guest artists, including Garron Noone, Lisa Hannigan, Emmet Kirwan, and David Keenan, hosted by “the Queen of Ireland” Panti Bliss. The concert promises an evening of music and festive cheer, with proceeds from ticket sales supporting Dublin Simon Community’s vital homelessness services. 

A Community of Hope: Artists for Dublin Simon also returns for its fourth year, bringing together artists, musicians and well-known figures in support of the charity. Established by artist John O’Donnell, the auction will feature artwork and memorabilia from over 200 contributors, including pieces sourced from leading Irish artists (Paul Hughes, Gerard Byrne, Mo Irwin) and some of the country’s most familiar faces (Bono, Imelda May, the Corrs). Launching on 27 November, the auction will feature in-person viewings at Flux Studios on Chatham Row, with online bidding open until 9 December. Funds raised will support Dublin Simon Community’s work with people experiencing homelessness. 

Continuing the musical theme, 20th Century Paddy: The Songs of Shane MacGowan will be available to purchase in participating record stores from 13 November, with 50% of proceeds going towards Dublin Simon Community. The album celebrates Shane MacGowan’s musical legacy, bringing together an eclectic mix of established and contemporary artists to reinterpret songs from his catalogue. 

Everwinter, the festive experience which opens at the RDS on 25 November for a five-week run, will provide the public with another opportunity to support the charity throughout the festive season as it announces Dublin Simon Community as this year’s official charity partner. You and your choir can also sign up to take the Music Pavillion stage at Everwinter and lend your voice to help end homelessness.  

Rounding out the Christmas programme, the annual Sing for Simon Carolathon returns on 14 December, bringing choirs and individual performers together for a festive singing marathon in support of Dublin Simon Community. Those interested in participating can contact the Dublin Simon Events Team at events@dublinsimon.ie. 

Catherine Kenny added, “We are delighted to see so many people coming together to support Dublin Simon Community this Christmas, from the artists and musicians lending their talents to the volunteers, partners and donors who make our work possible. It takes a community to end homelessness, and every contribution, big or small, helps us bring warmth, hope and support to those who need it most.”  

To learn more about this year’s Christmas campaign and the upcoming Christmas events, visit our website below  

• Sing for Simon Christmas Concert – dubsimon.ie/sing-for-simon  

• A Community of Hope Art Auction – dubsimon.ie/a-community-of-hope 

• Everwinter – everwinter.ie/music-pavilion-application#apply 

 

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For further information, contact: 

Aislinn Burke Aislinn@thereputationsagency.ie 0894928237  

Niamh Ní Fhionnghalaigh niamhni@thereputationsagency.ie 085273 3852