This year we’re celebrating something very special. And we want you to hear all about it. It’s twenty years since our Counselling Manager Derek Dempsey first walked through our doors. And what a journey it’s been – for Derek, Dublin Simon, and so many people you’ve helped us reach along the way.
Derek is a Dub born and bred; a father, a grandfather, and one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet. When he joined us in 2006, he brought a wonderfully varied background with him. But as he says, he found his true vocation here. He calls it a ‘privileged journey’.
He’s been at the heart of so much. From launching Sure Steps, our in-house counselling service, in 2012 to opening 4 new therapy rooms for client meetings this year. Through all of it, he’s never lost sight of what matters most: ensuring people who feel they have no hope, find some.
Recently, he shared a story that’s stayed with us. One of his very first clients arrived feeling, in Derek’s words, ‘completely broken’. Six years later, this person was transformed. Not just physically, but in their whole sense of themselves and place in the world. “It was overwhelming,”
Derek told us. Derek’s warmth and steadiness, plus his whole
team’s dedication, have quietly changed countless lives. In one-to-one sessions, on the streets, and everywhere between.
And here’s what Derek wants to share: he’s 100% clear none of this would be possible without you. “So long as we have the goodwill of the wider community,” he says, “we will continue to make change”
So from Derek, and everyone whose life has taken a better turn because of your kindness, thank you. You really are the reason it’s all possible.
SURE STEPS
In 2012, we started Sure Steps. The idea was beautifully simple: no matter where people find themselves, they should be listened to, supported, and helped find a way forward.
Everyone walking through our door tells a unique story – and our counsellors take time to genuinely hear and respond to it. We started with two part-time volunteers.
Today, 20 counsellors bring not just years of expert training, but real warmth and understanding to every single conversation.
14 PEOPLE. 14 KEYS
Recently, 14 people experienced this when Dublin Simon presented them with the keys to their beautiful new homes at Carpenters Court, Arbour Hill. And you helped make this incredible moment happen.
300 homes 🏠, and counting…Here’s something that still takes our breath away: thanks to your generosity, we’ve now helped people into over 300 homes. Each one represents a life steadied, a future unlocked, and someone who can look forward with excitement and pride
Your support of:
“I HAVE THE EXCITEMENT
TO LIVE AGAIN…”
“I was working full-time, living in my own apartment. Then I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and everything changed. I couldn’t return to work, and my income disappeared. My rent wasn’t sustainable anymore.”
Bad luck, ill health or any number of other reasons can leave anyone without a secure home. This happened to Sarah*, someone who thought her life was stable.
Then health problems triggered a chain reaction that left her homeless. She told us what happened. Her story really underlines how your support for Dublin Simon helps transform lives…
“At first, I stayed with family and moved between friends’ couches, and even cars. I needed my own space so I could get my health and my life back under control.”
Sarah was referred to Dublin Simon’s new women-only accommodation in Osberstown. The great news is that her future now looks far more positive. “Today, I’m still managing my health, but I feel stronger and more hopeful about the future. I have the excitement to live again…”
‘Hidden homelessness’ such as couch surfing and sleeping in cars isn’t counted in official homeless figures. The stats don’t see them – but we do.
Can you help another woman also find
somewhere safe to stay?
With just €21 a month, you can provide a night’s secure accommodation for a woman in crisis.
Join Our Monthly Giving Community to provide lasting support.
HOME RUN
It’s on again: the 43rd Dublin Simon Community Home Run 🏆 hits the road on
Saturday 3 October in Dublin’s Phoenix Park.
The Home Run is for everyone, whatever your age, fitness level, style or pace. It’s a fantastic celebration that brings together people who want to make homelessness a thing of the past. Friends with four legs can also join in! This year, you can purchase a pet bandana for your furry pal – and they can even trot along with you if they’re on a leash.
OSBERSTOWN OPENS THE DOORS
Last November, we opened the doors of a very special house in Osberstown, Co. Kildare. And it’s all thanks to your generous support, plus our partnership with Kildare County Council.
Sarah, who you met above, sums up what this means: “When I got here, I could finally breathe. I had somewhere to stay… I could relax.” And you made it happen – thank you!
SPREAD THE WORD