Radio NOVA has launched its 2016 Help Our Homeless Radiothon with the announcement of actor Cillian Murphy as its campaign ambassador.
The Dublin-based radio station aims to raise €40,000 in a live, on-air charity pedge drive to help fund Focus Ireland’s work to tackle and prevent homelessness in the Greater Dublin area; the Radiothon will take place live on Radio NOVA on the 17th and 18th of February.
It is NOVA’s second year to run its Radiothon; in 2015 the station raised more than €30,000 for Focus Ireland over two days of broadcasting.
Speaking on NOVA’s Morning Glory breakfast show with Dee Woods & Marty Miller, Cork native, Cillian Murphy said, “Homelessness is a problem that is very, very visible in our cities around the country and you can’t really escape it so it’s something that I thought I’d help out with. The Radiothon is a great idea, very proactive and that’s the kinda thing I like to support.
“It’s hard to imagine what it’s like not to have a home but that’s the reality facing hundreds of families with children, individuals and young people across Ireland. Homelessness has a terrible impact on people’s lives, especially on the lives of children. We can all play our part and help by supporting the Radio NOVA Radiothon which will raise money for Focus Ireland who are working hard to support families and individuals during this incredibly stressful time.”
Radio NOVA’s CEO / Programme Director, Kevin Branigan, said he intends to build on the success of last year’s Radiothon increasing the target to €40,000: “We were overwhelmed by the phenomenal support of our listeners last year to help us raise money for this vital cause. Sadly, the homeless crisis has deepened over the past 12 months and we will now hold another Radiothon to help Focus Ireland meet the increasing demand for their services.
“We are delighted and very grateful to have Cillian on board with us. We are confident that our 150,000 listeners will not be found wanting and will help us make this year’s event even bigger and better than ever in 2016.”