Over €7,000 raised in 130km cycle for New Hope Residential Centre

CYCLING from the lowest point in the country to a rehabilitation service for people battling addiction has raised more than €7,000 in essential funds.

Two men, one of which came through New Hope Residential Centre, have completed a 130km cycle from the lowlands of North Slob in Wexford to the Kiltalown addiction resource facility.

New Hope offers a year-long residential programme consisting of detoxes and rehabilitation for men with addiction issues, with the aim of helping people rebuild their lives after addiction.

With eight staff and 16 clients at present, New Hope relies heavily on fundraising, as it is not a charity which receives regular Government funding.

On September 3, Christopher Murtagh, who went through the programme, and Tallaght man Joe Cullen completed the 130km cycle in just over seven hours – and were welcomed to New Hope to rapturous applause.

“New Hope is a great place for people in addiction,” says Joe.

“I’ve been involved with New Hope for the last eight years and the work they do around Tallaght, and for the whole country. People come from all over the place to come to New Hope.

“We had a great time today, me and Chris. It just shows you, when you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything.

Joe Cullen and Christopher Murtagh after completing the 130km cycle

“What New Hope does for lads that are struggling and people that are at their lowest point, they really lift them up and give them opportunities.

“It changes lives, and change fellas that are caught up in addiction that think they have no hope, but they have new hope.”

While the open day at New Hope was postponed, a group of people completed a static cycle on site to raise funds.

The symbolism of going from the lowest point to new hope cannot be lost, with Kirsteen Doolan, New Hope Residential Centre senior administrator, describing the day as “powerful”.

“It’s really so powerful,” Kirsteen tells The Echo.

“For the lads in the programme, who are in their recovery at the moment, it means a lot to them because it shows people really care about their recovery and that it matters.

“Especially with our programme, it’s residential and it’s 12 months. In addiction people can feel quite worthless, so for people to invest in their life it is very profound for them in their recovery.

“Christopher actually came through the programme here.

“To complete the programme and then do 130km on the bike is such a huge achievement for him, and the gratitude that he has shown in giving back to the lads currently in the programme is incredible – it’s powerful.”

The GoFundMe is still live and donations are being accepted HERE.

Anyone struggling with addiction and seeking a change can contact New Hope Residential Centre on 01 451 2346.