Limerick hostel gets makeover thanks to local retailer

A LIMERICK hostel that provides emergency accommodation for men experiencing homelessness has had a makeover thanks to a local retailer. 

Oaklodge on Clare Street in Limerick city, which is run by Mid-West Simon Community, has undergone a makeover thanks to furniture retailer DFS and designer Tullio Orlandi.

Jackie Bonfield, CEO of  Mid-West Simon, said: "Oaklodge is home to 50 men who are experiencing homelessness and improving the communal spaces and environment for them here is life changing for our clients.

"Mid-West Simon relies on the generosity of the public for projects like this and is so appreciative of the support that Tullio, DFS, and the other suppliers have given us, to make this a welcoming space and a real home for the men living here."

She continued: "Unfortunately, we now have record numbers of homeless people in Ireland. The latest count of 11,542 people in emergency accommodation was the highest number ever recorded.

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"Last year, we have provided emergency and transitional accommodation to over 750 individual people and permanent accommodation to over 200 people.  

"This makeover will make a real difference to men experiencing homelessness in our region and we are so appreciative of Tullio, DFS and all the suppliers who made this happen. We continue to appeal for funds and ask people to continue to support us in whatever way they can. Thanks also to our funders the HSE, Limerick County Council and DSP who help us greatly."

Award winning local designer Tullio Orlandi said: "As a designer I really believe that your space has a strong bearing on how you feel, so this project has been very important to me.

"People experiencing homelessness deserve an opportunity to get back on their feet in a warm, welcoming and relaxing environment.

"Your home environment impacts your physical and mental health and has the ability to boost your mood and how you feel. I hope that the space in Oaklodge will provide just that for some of the most vulnerable people in our society, so I am so proud to have collaborated with some great suppliers here in Limerick.

"Thanks to DFS, Fleetwood paint, Curtains Direct, our volunteer painters from Cook Medical/Northern Trust/Axa Partners, LK Flooring, Trade Electric and all who supported us with this project."