SIX HOMELESS OLDER people have been given the keys to their new homes just in time for Christmas.
It’s all thanks to ALONE, the charity that supports older people in need, which purchased the houses using funds awarded under the Capital Assistance Scheme
The keys of the five newly-renovated houses were handed over to four single older people and one couple.
Sean Moynihan, Chief Executive Officer of ALONE, said:
We are delighted to have provided these six older people the safety and dignity of home in time for Christmas. It has been a challenge to get these houses purchased and ready, in just five months, but we are delighted to be able to move all six people in before the 24th.
Moynihan said that over the past two weeks they have furnished the houses to an “age-friendly standard” for their new residents.
“All of our residents are in regular contact with ALONE staff and volunteers, who are always there to provide professional support when required,” he assured.
But he said that while it’s wonderful to have given homes to six older people, “the reality is that many remain homeless and much more needs to be done”.
“We’re hopeful that in 2015, the Government will address the serious shortage of housing with supports for our ageing population, and that promises made in the recent Budget will be followed through,” said Moynihan.
He added that 170,000 older Irish people live alone, which makes them vulnerable to isolation.
This winter we are reminding the notoriously generous Irish public, to check in on their older neighbours, for a cup of tea, a quick word of kindness or just to see if they need a lift to the shops. No one deserves to be lonely at Christmas.
As part of their Key to Dignity campaign launched earlier this year, ALONE plan to double their housing capacities over the next three years. They are asking people to support their campaign by donating online or contacting 01 679 1032.
If you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or that of a vulnerable older person in the community, ALONE can be contacted on 01 679 1032, or at www.alone.ie
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