skip to main content

Irish acts to Rock Against Homelessness

Lyra
Lyra

Aimée, Toshin, Pastiche, Bobbi Arlo, Jack O'Rourke with MayKay, and Isaac Butler will headline this year’s Rock Against Homelessness night in aid of Focus Ireland in Dublin this May.

Hosted by Laura Whitmore and headlined and curated by Cork singer Lyra, the event, now in its eighth year, takes place on 26 May at 3Olympia Theatre, with tickets on sale this Friday at 9.00am.

Speaking about the night, Lyra said, "You would think in 2023 we would be able to provide people with a basic human right, the right to safety and security.

"Many a night I have walked through the streets seeing people sleeping in doorways trying to protect themselves from the harsh Irish weather and wondered where is the help?

Bobbi Arlo

"Thank god for charities like Focus Ireland as without them, I fear the worst. We as a nation need to be the voices for our fellow human beings who have lost everything."

Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan added, "It is really shocking to see that homelessness has shot up 30% in the last year to a new record total of 11,632 and it’s shameful that nearly 3,500 of these are children.

"Most lost their homes in the rental sector due to rocketing rents, landlords leaving the market, and the pressure due to the rising cost of living crisis. Events like Rock Against Homelessness - which has raised a much-needed €170,000 for Focus since the first concert in 2016 - help to bring hope to people while also raising funds so Focus Ireland can support people while they are homeless and help them to eventually secure a home.

Laura Whitmore

"This major event also brings hope to people who are homeless as it shows them that people care about them and want to help."

The Sunday Independent’s Rock Against Homelessness in aid of Focus Ireland is sponsored by Cadbury, Arachas Insurance and Hard Rock Café.

Read Next