Plans progress for homeless accommodation in west Donegal
The need has been identified and Approved Housing Bodies have submitted applications in the area
The issue has been repeatedly raised as Letterkenny and Bundoran are the only two towns to receive designated homeless accommodation countywide.
The council and HSE have identified the need and work is underway to identify a facility within the Glenties MD.
At the July meeting, Independent Councillor Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig highlighted: “People coming out of White Oaks need support - people who are living with addiction. Instead, they have to stay on the streets. How can we move forward? I was homeless myself for a while and I am very passionate about the topic.”
Michael Rowsome, Area Manager, Corporate and Housing, responded that upon identification, there are at least six group homes needed to fulfil the need across the MD.
The issue was previously raised at the May meeting, where it was stated that for the accommodation to be built, an Approved Housing Body needs to submit the application. Communication has been made with two Approved Housing Bodies and there is planning in place for Gweedore, Creeslough and Falcarragh.
Furthermore, appointments have been made in Donegal County Council for a Tenancy Sustainment Officer and a Homeless Officer, which have been filled by Deirdre Waters and Lynda McCann, respectively.
As the Homeless Officer, Ms McCann is responsible for identifying a facility in the MD, while Ms Waters is responsible for helping tenants to develop independent living skills.
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