Focus Ireland is a registered charity that works to prevent people becoming, remaining or returning to homelessness. The organisation was founded in 1985 by Sr. Stanislaus Kennedy, in response to the needs of a group of homeless women. Focus Ireland’s vision is that ‘everyone has a right to a place they can call home’ and the organisation works to make this vision a reality for thousands of people every year.
Funds raised are collected by Focus Ireland personnel and lodged into Focus Ireland’s bank account. Radio NOVA does not handle funds.
Focus Ireland was founded by Sr. Stanislaus Kennedy as a result of the finding of research into the needs of homeless women in Dublin. Through listening to he experiences of the women, the research team realised the importance of involving people who are experiencing or who had experienced homelessness in the development of services for people who are homeless.
In 1985, two years after the initial research Focus Point (now Focus Ireland) opened its doors in Eustace Street, Dublin. The organisation provided streetwork services to young people, advice, advocacy, information and help with finding a home as well as a warm welcoming place to meet and have a low-cost meal.
Since its foundation Focus Ireland has continued to grow and its research and advocacy work ensures that the rights of people who are homeless remain on the political agenda. In addition to its Dublin projects, it now has services and housing projects across Ireland including in Waterford, Kilkenny, Cork, Sligo and Limerick.
For more information about Focus Ireland, view their website, www.focusireland.ie
