Press Release
Following a record number of vulnerable people seeking assistance from Merchants Quay Ireland (MQI), the charity has launched an urgent winter fundraising appeal. So far this year, MQI has supported 6,900 clients via its open access day service in Riverbank, Dublin, a 29% increase on the same period last year. The charity has also seen an 11% increase in people over the age of 60, some of whom are experiencing homelessness for the first time.
As part of their ‘Cup of Kindness’ appeal, MQI has launched a new, emotive TV advert that highlights the fear, loneliness and stigma often experienced by people who are homeless or in addiction.
‘Darragh’, an MQI client in his sixties, can relate to this experience, having become homeless for the first time this year. He lost his job during the pandemic, so moved back to the family home, to care for his elderly mother. However, after his mum’s death, Darragh had nowhere to live. Like many people in Ireland, he never imagined he would be in this position.
MQI Client, Darragh explains:
“When I found myself on the streets, my wallet was stolen. It had the last of my money and my identification but most importantly, it had the only photo I had left of my mother. That’s what nearly broke me.
MQI saved me. I needed to talk, and they listened. They gave me good advice and put me on the right track. The service made a big difference to me. It was somewhere to sit down, somewhere to have a cup of tea and a chat. I would have been lost without it.”
Eddie Mullins, CEO at Merchants Quay Ireland continues:
“We are fast approaching Christmas, a time for spending with family and friends. However, for people who are homeless or in addiction, it can be the loneliest time of year. In fact, it can be the worst time of year, as it stirs up dark feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
Imagine watching all the Christmas parties and festivities from the sidelines, while having nowhere to call your own? That’s where MQI comes in. Our team is there to offer medical care, friendly advice, hot meals, or just a feeling of belonging and a bit of hope for the future.”
MQI is appealing to the public to consider donating to their ‘Cup of Kindness’ appeal via www.MQI.ie/Kindness so they can continue to be there to offer hope for those who need it most this winter.
