‘I was shocked to hear there were homeless women and children in this town'
The new fundraising officer for TEAM, Seán Bond ,is appalled at the extent of Mullingar’s homeless problem.
TEAM stands for Temporary Emergency Accommodation Mullingar and they run an 11-unit hostel called Teach Fáilte for women and children who find themselves homeless.
“I can’t imagine the range of emotions which must go through a woman’s mind when she finds herself, with her children, on the street. It must be terrifying,” Seán says.
Seán has lived in Mullingar for the last 14 years and has a background of fundraising in the voluntary educational sector. “We are a community and we have to look after each other,” he says. “It is shocking to think that small children wouldn’t have a bed to sleep in or a home to feel safe in.”
TEAM are working hard to help women and children who find themselves in this devastating situation. “We were able to help almost 70 women and their children last year,” Seán says. “While they are staying with us, the women are given guidance and support to make new lives for themselves. This is an invaluable part of our service. Because of this support, the women and their families are given a real chance of a positive future.”
Anyone who is shocked by the idea of women and children, including very young babies, out on the street with nowhere to go, can contact Seán at teamvolunteer1@gmail.com, or call him at 087 6622251.
“I want to build a group of friends and supporters who will help me work to provide shelter and a safe haven for these families. These women and children need our help but they have no voice. So I’m asking for them.
“Some people may be able to hold a fundraising event at their workplace or sports club. Others may be able to spare a few hours to help with our Street Collection Flag Day on July 11. I had a lady ring me last week to say she wanted to run a coffee morning for us. I will be delighted to hear from anyone who wants to give a helping hand.”
If you email Volunteer to teamvolunteer1@gmail.com, Seán will contact you directly to discuss how you can help or call him at 087 6622251.
“We’ll be out on the streets of Mullingar on July 11 – please give us and our buckets your support.”