Kilkenny — A Kilkenny-based homeless charity is currently supporting nearly 100 children experiencing homelessness, highlighting the growing impact of Ireland’s housing crisis on families across the midlands and south-east.
The Good Shepherd Centre Kilkenny said it is currently assisting 43 families and 98 children facing homelessness, along with eight young adults aged between 18 and 25 living in emergency accommodation through its services.
The organisation operates across several counties including Kilkenny, Carlow, Wexford, Tipperary, Longford, Offaly, and Westmeath.
According to the charity, the latest figures underline the increasing number of families and young people seeking support as housing pressures continue to intensify across the country.
St Patrick’s Day Parade to Highlight Child Homelessness
To draw attention to the issue, the charity will take part in this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Kilkenny City.
Participants will walk in solidarity carrying signs representing the number of children currently experiencing homelessness, under the message “No Child Should Be Homeless.”
The parade entry reflects this year’s theme “Together – Le Chéile,” highlighting the role communities can play in supporting families facing housing insecurity.
Homelessness Continues to Rise Nationwide
National figures show homelessness in Ireland remains at record levels.
More than 17,000 people are currently homeless nationwide, including 5,319 children, according to the latest official data.
Charity Highlights Impact on Children
Chief Executive Noel Sherry said the organisation is focused on providing families with a more stable environment during extremely difficult circumstances.
“Emergency hotel accommodation can be very challenging for families, particularly for children,” he said.
Through the charity’s Own Front Door programme, families are placed in houses or apartments rather than hotel rooms, allowing them to maintain a more normal family routine.
“It allows children to have a routine, space to play and do homework, and a sense of normal family life while their longer-term housing situation is being resolved,” Sherry added.
Community Support Key to Addressing Crisis
During the parade, participants will carry visual representations of the number of children currently supported through the organisation’s services to highlight the reality facing many families across the region.
Sherry said the message behind the initiative is simple: communities working together can make a meaningful difference.
“When communities come together — le chéile — we can support families through crisis and work towards a future where no child experiences homelessness,” he said.
The Kilkenny figures are part of a worsening national picture. Councillors in Kerry heard this week that working couples are considering quitting their jobs to qualify for social housing, while the RTB has been investigating eviction notices served on 36 Wexford households days before new rental protections came into force. The European Parliament passed the EU’s first ever housing plan this week, with Irish MEPs divided on whether it will help or deepen the crisis.
For the latest on Ireland’s housing crisis and landlord and tenant rights, visit M10News.com.
