Limerick community raises funds for homeless man found 'on the verge of death' in woodland

A SMALL community in County Limerick has launched a campaign to raise funds for a young homeless man found "on the verge of death" in a popular woodland. 

People in Kilbehenny and the surrounding areas have come together to launch a Go Fund Me to help 30-year-old Cian find a forever home. 

The fundraiser, which was launched last week, has raised more than €20,000 of the €200,000 target. 

According to the Go Fund Me page, Cian - who was the subject of a 2023 Virgin Media documentary on people with full-time jobs experiencing homelessness - grew up in State care and has slept on the streets of Ireland for many years. 

Despite being in numerous dangerous circumstances - including having his ribs broken and teeth knocked out - Cian still managed to find occasional employment, mostly in construction. 

However, he could never raise enough money to put a roof over his head and, with this goal becoming more and more difficult to achieve, Cian gave up all hope and went to die alone in a secluded area of Galtee Woods. 

Fortunately, local walkers found him. 

However, he was in "a severely malnourished state and on the verge of death" and is now recovering in hospital. 

The Virgin Media documentary can be viewed below: 

A spokesperson on the GoFundMe page stated: "We have been very touched by Cian's story and want to help Cian as much as we can. We want Cian to finally have the home he deserves.

"We are raising these funds to make his dream of a home come true and in his own words 'to live a simple life'. 

"Your kind donations are greatly appreciated. Thank you so very much."