£150,000 to fund festive dinners and small gifts for the homeless

A fund of £150,000 has been announced to provide festive dinner and small gifts for those experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland this Christmas.

Stormont Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said he hopes the move will bring some festive cheer to those who might otherwise go without.

The funding will be distributed by the charity Homeless Connect to homelessness service providers.

It will be used to deliver social events, such as Christmas dinners, and to provide small gifts to people who are supported by these providers

“Unfortunately, some people will experience homelessness this Christmas,” Mr Lyons said, speaking during Homeless Awareness Week.

“This is the time to remember that behind every statistic is a person struggling to find a safe and secure place to call home.

“I recognise the vital role played by charities, individuals and other partners who work tirelessly, especially at this time of the year, to support those facing homelessness.

“I have made a number of funding announcements this year to address the wider issue of homelessness but there is still more work to be done.

“I hope this goodwill grant will bring some festive cheer into the lives of people who might otherwise go without during the Christmas period.”

Chief executive of Homeless Connect Nicola McCrudden added: “Behind every statistic is a human story and during Homelessness Awareness Week we are reminding people to ‘See the Person’.

“As we work to address the wider structural issues, we must never lose sight of the people affected by homelessness – their hopes, their struggles and their strengths.

“This funding will provide a meaningful lift for thousands of adults and children experiencing homelessness over the festive period, ensuring they feel seen, valued and supported at a time when loneliness and hardship can hit hardest.”