ONE, the not-for-profit organisation providing support and advocacy for ex-service personnel of the Irish Defence Forces, has received a quick cash injection to connect its veteran residential homes with new technology, thanks to the RISE Community Fund supported by National Broadband Ireland (NBI).
Established by NBI chairman, David McCourt, RISE has awarded over 160 cash grants across the country to rural organisations seeking to boost their digital ecosystems. The fund is further supported by corporate sponsors including KN Circet, KPMG, DreamDev Technologies, and TLI Group.
Currently providing accommodation (board and lodging) for approximately 50 veterans, who otherwise would be homeless, across four residential homes in Cobh, Athlone, Dublin and Letterkenny, ONE has also developed a nationwide network of Veteran Support Centres and is expanding its accommodation services, with a new six-bedroom facility in Cork city and plans underway for a six-bedroom home in Limerick city.
“ONE is committed to ensuring that veterans have safe, secure accommodation and the support they need to rebuild their lives,” Paul Clarke from ONE, commented. “This grant from RISE will allow us to introduce improved connectivity, smart technologies and community-focused security systems across our homes, enhancing day-to-day living for the veterans we support.”
Across the country, delivery of the National Broadband Plan continues at pace, providing opportunities for groups like ONE to explore new ways to use technology. With over 450,000 premises now able to order a high-speed fibre connection on the NBI network, NBI remain on time and on budget.
David McCourt, chairman of NBI and founder of RISE, explained why supporting organisations like ONE is so important.
“We’re delighted to support ONE with this grant. The organisation is doing incredible work for veterans across the country, and it’s exciting to see how technology can be used to enhance their residential facilities and improve quality of life for those who have served.”
