As funding cuts continue, homelessness in the Midlands continues to be a growing issue, according to the Midlands Simon Community.
Midlands Simon has launched an urgent appeal to the people of the Midlands to help with the ever-increasing demand for their services. The charity has been hit with significant reductions in funding which has led to a loss of staff, reduced salaries, and further cutbacks throughout the charity. However, they are still managing to support 175 people who were homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, in Westmeath in 2013.
The appeal will run for Easter but people are urged to donate all year round, whether by setting up a standing order or simply donating throughout the year. Speaking about the Easter appeal, CEO of Midlands Simon Tony O’Riordan said, “Unfortunately homelessness is not getting any easier of an issue to deal with in the Midlands, as more and more individuals, couples, and families are finding themselves in need of our services.
“Midlands Simon Community has had a very tough year and 2014 isn’t getting any easier. Funding cuts have led to loss of staff... thankfully none of our frontline services have been adversely affected. We don’t know how many more blows we can be dealt before they will be. For this reason our Easter appeal this year has an increased urgency. We are the last safety net for many people and we will continue to be for as long as possible, but we need the help of the public,” said Mr O’Riordan.
To help Midlands Simon Community in their Easter appeal, you can make a donation online at www.midlandssimon.com, by phoning (090 ) 6444641, or by cheque/ postal order to Midlands Simon Community, PO Box 27, Athlone.
