First held in 1999, the Calcutta Run raises funds to combat homelessness in Ireland and Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) and has raised a staggering €3.7 million during the past nineteen years.

On 26 May up to 1500 participants will undertake a 5km or 10km route via the Phoenix Park with a cycling route available in Cork.
All proceeds from the 2018 event will go towards the work of the Peter McVerry Trust and The Hope Foundation. Both organisations help to reduce homelessness in Ireland and India.

The fundraiser brings together legal professionals from around the country and is supported by The Law Society of Ireland.

Commenting at the events launch, President of the Law Society Michael Quinlan said, “This is a very special year for the Calcutta Run as we celebrate its 20th anniversary. Recent weather events have highlighted the vital work those on the front line do to assist those in homelessness and the profession is delighted to help contribute to that effort.”

Pat Doyle, CEO of the Peter McVerry Trust, said, “The Calcutta Run is a fantastic initiative and we are delighted to have a long standing relationship with the event now in its 20th year. The Calcutta Run has made a huge contribution to the work of the Peter McVerry Trust over the years and our ability to respond to people experiencing homelessness in Ireland.”

Maureen Forrest, Founder and Director of the Hope Foundation said, “We are delighted to continue our partnership with The Calcutta Run this year. The Calcutta Run is making an incredible difference to the children with whom we work with in Kolkata. This year on the 20th anniversary of such an extraordinary event, we have an opportunity to send a message to this extremely vulnerable group of children that we are listening.”

Declan Black, Managing Partner at Mason Hayes and Curran and event launch host said, “The Calcutta Run is a unique event embraced by the entire legal profession in Ireland. It brings together private practices and in house lawyers, big firms and small, urban and rural in a common charitable endeavour. Our firm is proud to make its contribution to what will hopefully be a record breaking year for fundraising."

Pictured above: Law Society of Ireland President Michael Quinlan pictured with Maura Lennon, International Fundraising Director, The Hope Foundation and Pat Doyle, CEO, Peter McVerry Trust.

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