What would it feel like to spend your whole life working, only to face a future you never imagined? This episode brings you Carmel’s powerful and deeply human story. After decades of hard work while renting privately, retirement brought a reality she never thought she’d face, she could no longer afford her rent. With nowhere to turn, Carmel declared herself homeless.Thanks to the support of Galway Simon Community, she now has safety, stability, and hope again.Joining Carmel is Fintan Maher, Head of Communications, Fundraising, and Advocacy with Galway Simon Community. For 46 years, their organisation has been standing beside people affected by homelessness. Fintan sheds light on the growing challenges in the West of Ireland: the chronic shortage of social housing, the urgent need for government to recognise homelessness as the crisis it is, and the importance of prevention-focused supports that keep people from ever having to enter emergency accommodation.He shares sobering insights—the 25% rise in people seeking support last year, a 38% increase in families needing help, and the growing numbers of both younger and older people slipping into homelessness. With average rents in Galway rising by 75% in just five years—reaching €2,304 by March last year—secure, affordable homes are simply out of reach for too many.Yet, amid these challenges, there is hope. Fintan highlights that 95% of those who engaged with Galway Simon’s prevention services in 2024 avoided emergency accommodation. Their approach honours the full complexity of each person’s life - offering practical, therapeutic, stabilising, and deeply human support.With their annual Sleep Out taking place this Friday, 21st November, Fintan explains how funds raised support their Essentials Fund, providing food, heat, and other basic needs to people facing hardship.If you’re wondering how to make a difference, even the smallest act of generosity can help Galway Simon continue their vital work. Please consider donating to the Sleep Out or contributing whenever you can. Your kindness truly matters and it helps protect individuals, families, and older members of our community from the devastating threat of homelessness.DONATE HERE: https://galwaysimon.ie/donate/If you or someone you know needs the support of Galway Simon or any of the Simon Communities all over Ireland please find a list of their services and supports : https://www.simon.ie/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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