‘If you need help, please show up’ - Kilkenny charities offer help to those struggling this Christmas
Local people are being encouraged to avail of local bodies offering supports this festive season
Those sleeping rough or struggling financially are being urged to ask for help this Christmas as Kilkenny charities and voluntary organisations take to the streets, knock on doors and offer a bed for the most vulnerable in the community.
According to figures from the Department of Housing, the number of people in emergency accommodation across Ireland has reached a record high of 14,966.
Among the Kilkenny organisations offering a helpful hand are The Good Shepherd Centre spearheaded by their CEO Noel Sherry and Mary Pierce in Kilkenny Helping the Homelessness.
“If you need help, please show up,” Mr Sherry said.
“We’re open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. You can ring before calling up or call up to the gate - there’s no reason you’ll be turned away.”
Meanwhile, Mary Pierce has visited hundreds of local homes in recent months delivering essential goods to people on the financial edge.
“All day, every day we’re on the end of the phone, if someone wants something, nobody will do without,” she pledged.