Simon Community turns 300 away from shelter

CORK’S Simon Community had to turn 300 people away from its emergency shelter last year because it was full every night.

Director Colette Kelleher said despite the fact that Simon used its resources to the maximum, many people were still forced to sleep rough.

She will launch her 2006 annual report today and will call for a complete review of how emergency shelter is provided in the city.

“Last year, we maximised all our resources to reach out and support over 1,300 people,” she said.

Simon provided emergency accommodation to almost 500 people — a 17% increase on 2005. But more than 300 people were turned away because the shelter was full every night.

“We used every resource available to us, yet people ended up sleeping on the street,” she said.

“There is a clear need to examine the provision of emergency accommodation in the city so that we can at least offer everyone who needs it a roof over their head and a bed for the night.”

She said many people needed short-term assistance.

“But a significant number of people had a range of more complex needs — physical and mental health issues, destitution, addiction issues, a lack of meaningful family or moral support,” she said. “Their circumstances were complicated further by a shortage of suitable accommodation that would suit their needs and help them to live in dignity and comfort.

“Their only option was — and still is — the emergency shelter.”

But there were also many positive stories.

“We were able to help 39 people to live in comfort and dignity in our four high-support residential houses around the city,” she said.

“Our Housing Plus project was able to support 72 people in getting their lives back on track in Cork Simon flats, in private rented accommodation and in City Council housing.”

Ms Kelleher paid tribute to Cork people for their financial support, with over €1.8 million contributed

“The business community played their part too, by contributing funds directly and by creating space for their staff to get involved.”

But despite this generosity, Simon just managed to break even, she said.