Since 2009, Croí na Gaillimhe, a resource centre of St Vincent de Paul based in Mill Street, Galway, has been working to reduce social isolation by welcoming people on the margins into the “heart of Galway”.
Loretta Needham, manager of Croí na Gaillimhe, said: “With the support of our staff, tutors and volunteers we have created an inclusive and compassionate centre that celebrates the contributions of older individuals and offers support to international protection applicants. We aim to develop a community that values diversity, compassion, and inclusion both within our resource centre and in the wider community. We are proud of our tailored programmes for older individuals which recognise the wealth of experience, knowledge, and wisdom that older members of our community possess.
"Our programmes for older people include workshops on technology, wellness, art (which allows artistic expression ), and an intergenerational programme, designed to keep them active and engaged. Learning with no age limits, and most importantly the opportunity for social gatherings, events and outing to foster friendship and combat feelings of isolation. The centre offers workshops and classes to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
“Croí na Gaillimhe also recognises the challenges faced by international protection applicants in Galway, as they seek refuge and build new lives," Ms Needham added. "Our Failte Isteach conversational English classes for adults, led by volunteer tutors, provide opportunities for people to learn the basic English they need in their daily lives and also — and this is equally important — to practice their English skills with other people living in Galway over a cup of coffee.”
The centre offers support for International Protection applicants for their interviews. The centre recently launched two videos in four different languages. The first video focuses on what to expect when you make an application for asylum. Video two focuses on preparing for the main interview. The videos are available on the SVP YouTube playlist.
Anyone who is interested in the programmes is invited to attend the registration morning on Monday, September 11 from 9.30am to 11.30am where all the information on classes, clubs and groups will be available on the day.
The centre is open Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, and Friday 9am to 4pm. For more information phone 091 895203. "A member of staff will be happy to discuss our programmes and activities with you," Ms Needham said.
