Dublin Simon Community Launches Its 42nd Annual 5km Home Run in Phoenix Park
Thousands are expected to take part in Dublin Simon’s 42nd annual Home Run this October, raising vital funds as homelessness figures reach record levels. The charity has opened early bird registration for the beloved community event, which invites walkers, joggers and runners to complete a 5-kilometre loop in Phoenix Park on Saturday, 4th October.
This much-loved event offers participants a chance to raise life-changing funds for the country’s most vulnerable, while enjoying an inclusive route through one of Dublin’s most scenic settings.
This year, Dublin Simon is asking participants to treat their entry fee as just the beginning. By starting fundraising efforts early, supporters can maximise their impact and help deliver even greater support to those who need it most. The charity is asking anyone who chooses to fundraise to aim to raise €100 or more. Once fundraisers reach €50, they will receive a limited-edition Home Run souvenir t-shirt, which is also available to buy for €15. Find advice on how to fundraise on the Dublin Simon website.
Registration is now open at www.dubsimon.ie/home-run, with an early bird rate of €20 available, which includes postage for your Home Run pack, until 1 July (€30 thereafter). All funds raised will support Dublin Simon Community’s life-saving services, helping people close the door on homelessness for good.
The 5-kilometre loop is accessible to all ages and abilities. Whether you walk, jog, run, hop or dance to the finish line, the Home Run is all about community spirit. Previous participants have included schools, walking groups, parents with buggies, wheelchair users, elite runners, active retirement clubs and corporate teams – each united by a shared goal: to help end homelessness.
The first wave will start at 9.30am, with family and friends encouraged to cheer on participants along the route. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply soaking in the atmosphere, every step brings us closer to ending homelessness for good.
Since its founding in 1983, the Home Run has raised vital funds to support Dublin Simon Community’s work across emergency response, wraparound services and long-term housing solutions. In 2023 alone, Dublin Simon’s Outreach team had 6,706 interventions with people sleeping rough, delivered 2,022 hours of counselling and suicide crisis support, and assisted 6,061 people and families across all services.
Commenting on the 2025 launch, Dublin Simon Community CEO Catherine Kenny said:
“This is more than a fun run, it’s a movement powered by people who care. With the number of people experiencing homelessness continuing to rise, now more than ever we must come together and harness the power of community to drive change. Home Run is a shining example of what’s possible when participants, staff, volunteers, clients and supporters unite for a common cause. This event raises vital funds to support people experiencing homelessness, while offering a fun, feel-good way to give back. Since 1983, we’ve been making a real difference, and we remain committed to standing beside those who need us most. Join us on October 4th to show your support, raise your voice and take a step towards ending homelessness for good.”
It is our time to end homelessness.
Sign up for the 2025 Home Run here and help Dublin Simon Community raise essential funds and change lives.