UPDATE: Kilkenny charity album strikes a chord with locals as sales continue to grow

Sales from the recently released 'Kilkenny Helping the Homeless' CD have reached almost 200 to date.

The album was released at the end of August in the hope of shining a light on the Kilkenny homeless crisis. 

Mary Pierce, founder of 'Kilkenny Helping the Homeless' with her husband Brendan, claimed walking the streets can be 'upsetting' and 'difficult mentally', stating people from every social background, race and gender can be found sleeping rough. 

According to the Department of Housing, homeless figures rose by over 20% between June and July in Kilkenny.

Ms Pierce hailed local musician, John Travers, for his foresight in creating the project and believes the initiative can help people struggling with the cost of living as well as those without a home.

Travers, a veteran of Kilkenny music for over 60 years, assembled the group of musicians and singers for the 11 track album.

The CD, which features local contributors exclusively, has sold over 180 albums in the city and surrounding areas.

Mr Travers welcomed the news, thanking each of the singers for their input, while also acknowledging the input of Rory Broderick in the creation of the CD and Mary Butler for her performance on the piano. 

The local singer hopes the album can spread across the county in the coming weeks and months. 

Cllr Andrew McGuiness performed on the album and praised both Mary Pierce and John Travers for their work on the project.

Speaking about Ms Pierce's input, Cllr McGuinness said: "She has made a positive difference in the lives of so many people so it was great to get the opportunity to help raise funds for her to continue that work."

The former Mayor extended his praise to Mr Travers stating: "He is another great individual who goes above and beyond for others."