'Tree of Hope' planted at Samaritans gathering
Image 1 of 2
Anne McGrath, Athlone & Midlands Samaritans branch director, speaking at the tree planting event on Friday.Image 2 of 2
Some of those in attendance at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre fitness park on Friday for the planting of a ‘tree of hope’ by the Athlone & Midlands Samaritans branch.Samaritans Awareness Day was celebrated in Athlone on Friday last with the planting of an oak tree - as a symbol of hope - in the fitness park at the town's Regional Sports Centre.
Taking place on July 24 (24/7), the awarness day was designed to remind everyone that Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a listening ear and emotional support to anyone who is struggling or going through a difficult time.
Speaking at the local tree planting event on Friday morning, Anne McGrath, director of Athlone and Midlands Samaritans, said: "The oak is a symbol of strength and hope.
"We hope this tree will stand as a lasting reminder that, even in difficult times, there is always hope and that brighter days can lie ahead.
"I would like to sincerely thank our wonderful Samaritan volunteers for the compassion, dedication and countless hours they give to supporting people. Your kindness makes an immeasurable difference in the lives of so many."
Ms McGrath thanked the Mayor of the Athlone Moate Municipal District, Cllr Liam McDaniel, and local councillors Frankie Keena and John Dolan for their attendance on the day and for the ongoing support which the Samaritans receive from the council.
"Our thanks also to Liam Cunningham, Manager of Athlone Sports Centre, for facilitating the planting of the tree here in the fitness park and to Corey Reid and Fernhill Garden Centre for their generous donation of this beautiful oak tree, and for preparing and planting it for us. Your support has helped make today's event possible," she said.
Ms McGrath concluded by thanking all of the volunteers and supporters who had gathered to mark Samaritans Awareness Day in a meaningful way in Athlone.
"Your presence highlights the importance of raising awareness of mental health and reminding people that they never have to face difficult times alone," she stated.
Samaritans volunteers in Ireland answered almost 350,000 calls for help in 2025. If you think you might be interested in becoming a volunteer, call or text John on 087 7176168 or email: Athlone.branchrecruitment@samaritans.org.
Samaritans are available on Freecall 116 123, 24 hours a day.