Queer Belfast streamer, Paul "Bloomeroid" Bloomer, to take on 24-hour charity gaming marathon for Samaritans
Queer content creator Paul "Bloomeroid" Bloomer will undertake a 24-hour charity livestream in aid of Samaritans beginning at 8am on Friday, 18 July.
Streaming live across Twitch, YouTube and TikTok, Paul will spend 24 hours playing a variety of games, chatting with viewers and welcoming members of the public to join multiplayer games throughout the event. All donations will go directly to Samaritans through the official fundraising page.
For more than 70 years, Samaritans has provided a free, confidential, non-judgemental listening service, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone struggling to cope. The charity works to reduce suicide, improve emotional wellbeing and raise awareness of mental health across the UK and Ireland.
Samaritans, an active supporter of LGBTQ+ communities, participates in Pride events across the UK and Ireland, including Dublin Pride, where volunteers provide face-to-face support and a listening ear during the festival. Samaritans incorporates LGBTQ+ experiences into volunteer training, has an internal LGBTQ+ staff and volunteer network, and works with LGBTQ+ organisations to improve understanding and support for the community.
Paul said: "This fundraiser is incredibly personal to me. During one of the darkest periods of my life, a Samaritan was there to listen without judgement and helped me get through it. I'll never forget that kindness, and this stream is my way of giving something back so that support is there for the next person who needs it.
"As a proud queer man from North Belfast, it also means a great deal to support an organisation that stands alongside LGBTQ+ communities, takes part in Pride events across Ireland and the UK, and works to ensure everyone knows they have someone to talk to. If you enjoy gaming, I'd love you to join me, play a few games, have a chat and, if you're able, support this fantastic cause."
The livestream is open to everyone, whether they want to watch, play games, join the conversation or support the fundraiser.
Watch live on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/bloomeroid, TikTok: @Bloomeroid or Youtube @Bloomeroid.
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