Wexford Public Urged to Give Back an Hour as Irish Red Cross Volunteers Clock Up One Million Minutes a Month

People across County Wexford are being encouraged to put the extra hour they gain when the clocks go back this month to good use by supporting the lifesaving work of Irish Red Cross volunteers.

The charity has launched a nationwide fundraising campaign, A Million Minutes, highlighting the extraordinary contribution of volunteers who collectively give one million minutes of their time every month helping people and communities across Ireland.

With the clocks set to go back on Sunday, October 25th, the Irish Red Cross is asking people in Wexford to take part in its One Hour Challenge, turning that extra hour into an opportunity to raise vital funds.

Participants can walk, run, cycle, hike, swim, dance or take on another activity of their choice, with all funds raised helping to strengthen the charity's emergency response capabilities.

The campaign comes as Ireland enters the winter storm season, when severe weather, flooding and other emergencies can leave vulnerable people isolated and communities in urgent need of assistance.

Irish Red Cross volunteers play a crucial role in responding to these situations, providing emergency support, first aid and practical assistance.

In County Wexford, volunteers from the Enniscorthy branch have been among those carrying out door-to-door welfare checks on vulnerable residents affected by storms and flooding, delivering essential supplies and providing reassurance and human contact.

Across the country, volunteers also provide first aid at sporting and community events, train schoolchildren and community groups in lifesaving skills, transport patients to medical appointments and support people experiencing isolation.

The Irish Red Cross says money raised through the campaign will help train volunteers, maintain and upgrade essential equipment and strengthen its network of branches.

Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General of the Irish Red Cross, says being prepared for emergencies is critical.

"Crises don't wait until we're ready. The Irish Red Cross is focused on preparing for emergencies – be it a severe storm, flooding, a fire or pandemic – responding when needed and helping communities in Ireland recover stronger."

She said the organisation is working to increase its emergency response capacity by upskilling volunteers and strengthening local branches.

"With the support of the Irish public and Irish businesses we can do even more," she added.

Ms Garvey is encouraging people to take on a sponsored activity for just one hour, helping to fund the training and equipment volunteers need to respond when emergencies arise.

How Wexford Can Get Involved

Whether it's a sponsored walk along Wexford Quay, a cycle through the countryside, a run with friends or a family activity, people of all ages can get involved.

The idea is simple: when the clocks go back and you gain an extra hour, give an hour back to those who give so much of their time to others.

Organisers hope the campaign will also highlight the often unseen work of volunteers who dedicate their time to helping people through emergencies, illness and difficult circumstances.

With winter approaching, the Irish Red Cross says the support of local communities will be vital in ensuring volunteers are ready to respond whenever and wherever they are needed.

Anyone wishing to take part in the One Hour Challenge or make a donation can visit www.amillionminutes.com for further information.