You may have heard of The Big Busk, you probably already know how powerful music can be when communities come together for a cause that matters.
The Big Busk struck a chord across Ireland. This year, we’re building on that incredible spirit with something new.
On Friday 1st May, musicians, supporters, communities and schools – just like yours, across Ireland will come together to Make Some Noise for children without a home.
Live events will take place in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Sligo, supported by radio stations including RedFM, iRadio, Spin Southwest, Spin 1038 and 98FM. At the same time, people across the country will be organising their own gigs in local venues and communities.
So whether it’s a full band, a solo set, or just raising your voice for a good cause, we’d love your school to be involved.
SIGN UP LINK @ makesomenoise.focusireland.ie
Because right now in Ireland, over 5,300 children are living in temporary accommodation.
That’s why we’re asking kind-hearted music-lovers like you and your students across the country to raise their voices, and their instruments, until every child has a place to call home.
Will you help Make Some Noise on May 1st?
Will your school organise a gig, make some noise at lunch time? Every voice helps turn up the volume on this issue.
Together, let’s make some noise until every child has a home.
Shine A Light – Sleep Out Against Homelessness
Students and teachers come together for a meaningful, reflective event sleeping out in a safe, supervised environment such as your school hall or gym. This experience helps young people build empathy and raises crucial funds to support families trapped in emergency accommodation.
Re-turn Bottle & Can Recycling Fundraiser
Supporting Focus Ireland through Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme
Help your school support Focus Ireland and protect the environment by taking part in Ireland’s national Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), operated by Re turn.
Every eligible plastic bottle or aluminium can your school collects returns 15c–25c straight back to you, all of which can be donated to Focus Ireland.
How It Works
• Eligible Items: Plastic bottles and aluminium cans 150ml–3L with the Re turn logo and a readable barcode.
• Collection in School: Students place empty containers in clearly marked bins around the school.
• Redeeming Containers: Collected items are returned via a Reverse Vending Machine or over-the-counter at participating retailers.
• Giving Back: Your school donates 100% of the funds raised to Focus Ireland to help end homelessness.
Why Your School’s Support Matters
Last year, schools like yours helped Focus Ireland support almost 5,300 children across our services. Today, with homelessness reaching record-breaking levels month after month, your involvement is more important than ever.
Organising a fundraiser is easier than you think, it gives the student immense pride and a strong sense of social justice. We will support you every step of the way with guidance, resources, and school talks (in-person or via Zoom).
Every voice, every song, every act of kindness makes a difference.
Teachers, Inspire Your Students to Be Changemakers
Show our No Child Without A Home video in your classroom. Homelessness affects thousands of children their own age. By organising a Shine A Light Sleep Out Against Homelessness, Make Some Noise, organising Return Bottles students learn empathy, leadership, and the real impact of community action. These events give young people a voice and a chance to stand up for a fairer Ireland.
Need Help or Ready to Sign Up?
I love hearing the ideas teachers and students come up with, whether it’s a big performance, a small lunchtime moment, or something completely new. If you’re thinking of taking part in Make Some Noise, Shine A Light , or the Deposit Return Scheme, I’m here to help you shape your plans and make them work for your school.
What I enjoy most is how these activities open students’ eyes and spark real empathy, creativity and teamwork. Every gig, every sleep out, and every bottle returned truly brings us a step closer to ensuring No Child IsWithout A Home.
I’d be delighted to support your school, not just for one event, but throughout the whole year as new ideas and opportunities pop up.
If you’d like to chat or get started, you can reach me at:
+353 87 695 1883 / Ingrid.Garacki@focusireland.ie