The Fuchsia Appeal 2024 was launched by the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces Lt Gen Sean Clancy, following speeches by CEO ONE, Cormac Kirwan, Chairman of ONE Brig Gen Colm Campbell Retd. and the Secretary General of the Dept. Defence Jacqui McCrum.

The weather did not dampen the spirit of those who were there in support of the Homeless Veterans of the Military Community. In attendance were members of Dáil Éireann, the Oireachtas, the Defence Forces including Veterans of all associations and organisations along with colleagues from the Civil Defence and An Garda Siochana. Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and Senator Fiona O’Loughlin took time out of their busy schedule to attend.

In his speech, CEO of ONE Cormac Kirwan announced the expansion of Veteran Homes and services, 5 additional residential homes and increased mental health support for a growing number of at-risk veterans.

The five new homes include:

• Cork City (Brú Uí Choileáin): A new home with 6 bedrooms, developed in partnership with Cork City Council and the Office of Public Works, is set to open in 2025.

• Limerick City (Brú an tSairséalaigh): A 7 bedroom home, developed in partnership with the Defence Forces, the Department of Defence and Limerick City and County Council, is expected to open in October 2025.

• Newbridge: A 6-8 bedroom home in partnership with Kildare County Council and the Housing Agency is planned to open in 2026.

• Additional homes are planned for Galway and Louth, with the goal of having 80+ single bedrooms across nine houses nationwide by ONE’s 75th anniversary at the end of 2026.

The announcements are being made at a time of growing concern at the level of homelessness in Ireland. To date, ONE has helped more than 1,000 veterans out of homelessness. With the help and support that ONE provides; the organisation is able to ensure that 90% of those veterans can escape the cycle of homelessness and find permanent housing.