How have we supported homelessness so far?
Homelessness in Ireland is one of the most hotly discussed issues in the country. Many commentators raise the important question of why this is still an issue in a modern society. The simple answer is that there is no one single solution to the problem. It’s complex and requires people to give in a strategic way that tackles the underlying causes of homelessness.
Alongside our donors, we have awarded almost €3 million to this issue since we began our work. Some examples of where funding was granted include the provision of strategic supports to Dublin Simon Community, Peter McVerry Trust and Focus Ireland. We have funded long-term programmes which address areas such as employability, education and health and well-being.
The only solution to address homelessness is to tackle the root causes.
Dublin Simon Community
“We’re developing a programme called Suicide Specific Treatment Track Protocol for staff to manage clients in crisis. People who are homeless are at a 22x higher risk of suicide than the general public. I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the donor who provided funding for this essential service. It is going to make a difference to people’s lives.”
How you can help
We can tackle this enormous issue once and for all but we need people to give strategically and with purpose. To address the underlying issues, we need to look at two key areas, housing and addiction issues. By funding research which looks at policies around social housing and joined up thinking, we can develop long-term solutions to the issue. In addition, through long-term supports for alcohol and drug misuse through education and rehabilitation programmes, we can work to prevent people becoming homeless in the first place.
Out of all the social issues in Ireland, this is one area where joined-up thinking between government, the non-profit sector and private philanthropic individuals is needed.
Visit our Giving section to explore how you can strategically fund the issue of Homelessness in Ireland. You can support the fund immediately or leave a gift in your will. The choice is yours.