Ten years ago, I felt completely hopeless about my future. After my relationship with my partner broke down, I was homeless and had nowhere to go. I can not describe the fear I had the first night, I slept on a bench outside the council offices, with no money and no place to go. Even today, it breaks my heart when I see people in the same boat.

I spent the next seven years homeless, staying in hostels or couch surfing. Every day I woke up worrying about where I would sleep that night. This was immensely draining on my mental and physical health. Thankfully, in the spring of 2020, Focus Ireland helped me find a place of my own. I was ecstatic when it was offered to me. I didn’t even have any furniture but I was ready to move in and set about making it my home.

Finally, I felt I could offer people something, and do something meaningful with my life instead of just focusing on finding a bed for the night. I volunteered in a charity and got a part-time job. I was able to rekindle friendships and relationships with my children. I had a young son in State care during this time. Last year, he turned 18 and left care. We wanted to live together, and with the support of my key worker, I applied for a transfer for a 2-bed apartment for us both.

Ten years ago, my life was so difficult and felt hopeless, today I am in a beautiful 2 bed apartment, living with my son. I always tried to be a good mammy when I had no home, but it was really difficult. These days I get great pleasure from inviting my now adult children to my home for dinner. The stability of a home has been essential. I can see a future again, my son is heading off to college and his prospects are looking bright.

Focus Ireland can help people who have faced similar challenges to me and my family, but that is only possible because of the generosity of a compassionate community of supporters like you.