In the early hours of Saturday morning, around 3,000 people gathered in Waterford City to take part in the annual Darkness into Light walk, a moving event in support of Pieta House. As dawn broke, participants, dressed in bright yellow, made their way through the city’s streets and along the quays.

The walk aims to raise awareness and funds for Pieta House, an Irish charity dedicated to providing free support for people in suicidal distress, those engaging in self-harm, and individuals bereaved by suicide. Since its founding in 2006, Pieta has helped over 70,000 people through its nationwide network of centers, offering professional therapy services without the need for a referral.

Darkness into Light has grown from a single event in Dublin’s Phoenix Park to a worldwide show of unity and hope, with communities coming together each May to walk from darkness into sunrise—symbolising the journey from despair to hope. The Waterford event once again demonstrated the strength and compassion of a community united in the fight against suicide.

Pieta’s services are available 24/7, with a free crisis helpline at 1800 247 247 and a text support line by texting ‘HELP’ to 51444. The organization relies heavily on public support and donations, and events like Darkness into Light play a vital role in sustaining their life-saving work.

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