Galway auctioneers O’Donnellan & Joyce and independent charity ALONE, are joining forces this Christmas to support ALONE’S ‘Key to Dignity’ campaign, which aims to double supportive housing for older people.
The Key to Dignity’ is ALONE’s three year plan to ease the housing crisis amongst vulnerable older people through doubling their housing capacities. O’Donnellan and Joyce recognise that a key to a home means a key to dignity for many and in support of this great cause, a donation collection will be held at O’Donnellan and Joyce’s final auction of 2014 on tomorrow December 12 in the Harbour Hotel, Galway.
There are currently 4,765 older people on the housing list. With a rapidly ageing population, this figure is set to increase significantly unless social housing providers like ALONE are assisted in providing supportive housing for vulnerable older people.
Chief Executive Officer of ALONE, Sean Moynihan says, “We are asking the public to support our Key to Dignity campaign, and donate what they can to help us provide homes for homeless older people. We guarantee that every cent donated will go towards purchasing and renovating properties for older people in need, all of our services are transparent and quality approved.” said Mr Moynihan.
With over thirty years’ experience in the property business, O’Donnellan & Joyce auctioneers have been helping people find the perfect home in Galway city and county. Over the years, they have acknowledged the importance of giving back to society and have lent their support to a number of Irish charities, including Temple Street Children’s Hospital, Cancer Care West and Positive Mental Health Group. Charity auctions have been a staple fundraiser for many charities and Colm O’Donnellan has put many an unusual item under the hammer all in the name of charity.
ALONE is not a recipient of Government funding and is reliant on donations from the public and corporate support. They provide Supportive Housing, Befriending, Community Response and Campaigning services to hundreds of older people every week. ALONE, not only assists the homeless, but also helps those in crisis and in need of emergency support in their own homes. They also work with older people who are lonely and would like some company on a regular basis and wish to meet other older people and participate in social events.